Translated report from Pontianak Post :
" SINTANG : Had dim, it turns out the bird flu disease is still haunted Sintang District, especially around urban areas. Do not want to underestimate, Sintang Government continues to strive to be zero in Sintang bird flu. "Clearly we remain vigilant, and related agencies to constantly monitor the development of bird flu cases so far is just to attack poultry," said Regent Sintang Milton Crosby told reporters, Thursday (28/10) in Sintang.Ia remind citizens not to like fighting cocks fighting cocks carelessly brought into Sintang, especially from areas that have been infected with bird flu. "Since the beginning of transmission of bird flu in Sintang, is known stems from fighting cocks brought residents of Pontiac," he said.
According to Milton, the efforts made other than socializing also intensify prevention by spraying using a disinfectant and destroy infected birds. "The funds we are limited to cope with this problem, and of course we very much hope that the provincial government helped to memanggulangi bird flu in this Sintang," please bupati.Kepala of Livestock Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Sintang Wiryono said this sat for the city still positive Sintang found any dead birds from bird flu. "Two weeks ago I believe there is chicken deaths in the area Akcaya, and after the check was due to bird flu," he explained."
Friday, October 29, 2010
Rapid test for malaria approved for Haiti
Via UPI :
" ATLANTA, Oct. 28 : Haitian and U.S. officials have approved the use of three malaria rapid diagnostic tests for use in earthquake-ravaged Haiti, a U.S. report says.
Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta and Haiti Ministry of Public Health and Population say because symptoms of malaria are non-specific, a laboratory test to confirm the diagnosis is recommended, but it is not always possible to use the microscopes necessary for the test because of the lack of equipment or trained personnel."
" ATLANTA, Oct. 28 : Haitian and U.S. officials have approved the use of three malaria rapid diagnostic tests for use in earthquake-ravaged Haiti, a U.S. report says.
Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta and Haiti Ministry of Public Health and Population say because symptoms of malaria are non-specific, a laboratory test to confirm the diagnosis is recommended, but it is not always possible to use the microscopes necessary for the test because of the lack of equipment or trained personnel."
Ireland : Fresh case of swine flu
Via Independent :
" SWINE flu is back -- the first reported case this autumn has been diagnosed in a young child.
The child, who is under five years of age, had to be hospitalised with the virus, the country's disease watchdog revealed last night.
Another case of influenza A, a common strain, was also reported last week .
A vaccine is now available which protects against all the strains of flu circulating this year, including swine flu.
Last winter there were three deaths among children aged between 5-14 years from swine flu in the Republic. Children with underlying illnesses are among the risk groups who are advised to get the vaccine in Ireland this winter."
" SWINE flu is back -- the first reported case this autumn has been diagnosed in a young child.
The child, who is under five years of age, had to be hospitalised with the virus, the country's disease watchdog revealed last night.
Another case of influenza A, a common strain, was also reported last week .
A vaccine is now available which protects against all the strains of flu circulating this year, including swine flu.
Last winter there were three deaths among children aged between 5-14 years from swine flu in the Republic. Children with underlying illnesses are among the risk groups who are advised to get the vaccine in Ireland this winter."
Nepal : Dengue claims two lives in Butwal
Via The Himalayan Times :
" BUTWAL : At least 127 persons have been reported to be the victim of dengue in Rupandehi since mid-August, and two of them have lost their lives as of today.
Thirty-nine-year-old Bhim Bahadur BK of Butwal municipality-6, Adarshanagar and Kamal Ghimire of Parroha Village Development Committee (VDC) breathed their last due to dengue, according to District Public Health Office.
According to the information given at a press conference organized by the Office yesterday, BK died in Kathmandu and Ghimire in Chitwan while undergoing treatment."
" BUTWAL : At least 127 persons have been reported to be the victim of dengue in Rupandehi since mid-August, and two of them have lost their lives as of today.
Thirty-nine-year-old Bhim Bahadur BK of Butwal municipality-6, Adarshanagar and Kamal Ghimire of Parroha Village Development Committee (VDC) breathed their last due to dengue, according to District Public Health Office.
According to the information given at a press conference organized by the Office yesterday, BK died in Kathmandu and Ghimire in Chitwan while undergoing treatment."
India : Death marches in Khadra as experts quibble over cause
Via Indian Express :
" Death has been on the rampage in Khadra, an otherwise quiet area on the Sitapur Road — hitting over 30 households in the last two weeks.
Most have died of a viral fever, four deaths were reported in the last two days. In Lucknow, health authorities are busy denying that the virus concerned is dengue, even though reports by two teams of doctors — from the Centre and the state — say the dengue or a dengue-like fever is there in the area. Two medical camps have been running at two centers in Khadra for the last 10 days.
According to the Chief Medical Officer, Dr AK Shukla, only 19 deaths have occurred in the area — though locals claim the figure is 32."
" Death has been on the rampage in Khadra, an otherwise quiet area on the Sitapur Road — hitting over 30 households in the last two weeks.
Most have died of a viral fever, four deaths were reported in the last two days. In Lucknow, health authorities are busy denying that the virus concerned is dengue, even though reports by two teams of doctors — from the Centre and the state — say the dengue or a dengue-like fever is there in the area. Two medical camps have been running at two centers in Khadra for the last 10 days.
According to the Chief Medical Officer, Dr AK Shukla, only 19 deaths have occurred in the area — though locals claim the figure is 32."
Korea : Bird flu back
Via Meat Trade News Daily :
" The veterinary authority sent an Immediate Notification dated 17 October to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
The report describes the reoccurrence of LPAI, last seen in the country in late June this year.
Sub-clinical infection was found on 5 October at a farm at Changso-ri in Chungcheongnam-do in the west of the country. All 3,274 birds in a mixed flock of ducks, chickens and turkeys have been destroyed.
The H7N7 sub-type of the virus has been confirmed."
" The veterinary authority sent an Immediate Notification dated 17 October to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
The report describes the reoccurrence of LPAI, last seen in the country in late June this year.
Sub-clinical infection was found on 5 October at a farm at Changso-ri in Chungcheongnam-do in the west of the country. All 3,274 birds in a mixed flock of ducks, chickens and turkeys have been destroyed.
The H7N7 sub-type of the virus has been confirmed."
Zimbabwe : Quarantined pupils to write exams
Via The Herald :
" The Ministry of Education, Sport, Arts and Culture has made provisions for children affected by the Influenza A outbreak in Tsholotsho to write public examinations while quarantined.Matabeleland North provincial education director Mrs Boithatelo Mnguni said infected pupils who can sit through an examination are allowed to write and without a time limit.
"They are given separate rooms where they can write without infecting other children. They are allowed to write at their own pace and the examination time limit is not taken into consideration," she said.She said two pupils from Magana Secondary School failed to write Ndebele Paper One yesterday due to illness.
"Six pupils from Dikili, were also reported to be seriously ill, although it could not be established if they were able to write," Mrs Mnguni said.Mrs Mnguni said health teams had been alerted to the situation at Dikili.She said pupils at Mpindo Primary School — which was in danger of being closed last week after 95 percent of pupils succumbed to Influenza — were responding well to treatment."
" The Ministry of Education, Sport, Arts and Culture has made provisions for children affected by the Influenza A outbreak in Tsholotsho to write public examinations while quarantined.Matabeleland North provincial education director Mrs Boithatelo Mnguni said infected pupils who can sit through an examination are allowed to write and without a time limit.
"They are given separate rooms where they can write without infecting other children. They are allowed to write at their own pace and the examination time limit is not taken into consideration," she said.She said two pupils from Magana Secondary School failed to write Ndebele Paper One yesterday due to illness.
"Six pupils from Dikili, were also reported to be seriously ill, although it could not be established if they were able to write," Mrs Mnguni said.Mrs Mnguni said health teams had been alerted to the situation at Dikili.She said pupils at Mpindo Primary School — which was in danger of being closed last week after 95 percent of pupils succumbed to Influenza — were responding well to treatment."
Pakistan : Dengue virus kills 27 people countrywide
Via Daily Times :
" LAHORE: After affecting Sindh, the dengue virus has begun to rapidly spread in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while at least 27 people have died countrywide due to the epidemic, a private TV channel reported on Thursday. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), as many as 1,170 people had been affected from the dengue virus in Punjab.
About 93 more dengue affectees had been brought to various hospitals of Lahore in the last 24 hours, raising the toll to 964 dengue patients in the city. In Faisalabad, eight people had been admitted in a separate ward of the Allied Hospital, the channel reported. According to the Health Department, the first round of the anti-dengue spray had been completed in the rural and urban areas."
" LAHORE: After affecting Sindh, the dengue virus has begun to rapidly spread in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while at least 27 people have died countrywide due to the epidemic, a private TV channel reported on Thursday. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), as many as 1,170 people had been affected from the dengue virus in Punjab.
About 93 more dengue affectees had been brought to various hospitals of Lahore in the last 24 hours, raising the toll to 964 dengue patients in the city. In Faisalabad, eight people had been admitted in a separate ward of the Allied Hospital, the channel reported. According to the Health Department, the first round of the anti-dengue spray had been completed in the rural and urban areas."
US : Whooping cough continues to climb in California
Via CNN :
" California is in the middle of the worst outbreak of whooping cough in 60 years. According to the state health department, there are now 6,257 confirmed, probable and suspected cases of the disease. Ten people have died.
"Unfortunately and tragically we have had 10 deaths, all in infants under 2 years of age," said Dr. Kathleen Harriman, California Department of Public Health. Nine of the 10 infants were Hispanic and several had family members with "cough illness," according to Harriman."
" California is in the middle of the worst outbreak of whooping cough in 60 years. According to the state health department, there are now 6,257 confirmed, probable and suspected cases of the disease. Ten people have died.
"Unfortunately and tragically we have had 10 deaths, all in infants under 2 years of age," said Dr. Kathleen Harriman, California Department of Public Health. Nine of the 10 infants were Hispanic and several had family members with "cough illness," according to Harriman."
Suspected virus in India kills dozens
An article from CBC News :
" Doctors in a northern Indian state are struggling to identify a disease that has killed more than 50 people over the past two weeks.
The suspected virus affects mostly children and older people, who suffer from a high fever, vomiting and headaches before succumbing, officials said Thursday.
"We are not able to identify the virus that is causing the deaths. It could be a mutant form of dengue or malaria, but we are not sure," said S.P. Ram, the state's top medical official. "Microbiologists are trying to pinpoint the exact cause."
In the state capital, Lucknow, about 340 people have been sickened and at least 51 have died, said Manish Mishra, a government spokesman.
Blood samples have been sent to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases in New Delhi to identify the disease, Mishra said.
Health authorities blamed unhygienic conditions for the spread of the disease, which has particularly hit Lucknow's Khadra neighbourhood."
" Doctors in a northern Indian state are struggling to identify a disease that has killed more than 50 people over the past two weeks.
The suspected virus affects mostly children and older people, who suffer from a high fever, vomiting and headaches before succumbing, officials said Thursday.
"We are not able to identify the virus that is causing the deaths. It could be a mutant form of dengue or malaria, but we are not sure," said S.P. Ram, the state's top medical official. "Microbiologists are trying to pinpoint the exact cause."
In the state capital, Lucknow, about 340 people have been sickened and at least 51 have died, said Manish Mishra, a government spokesman.
Blood samples have been sent to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases in New Delhi to identify the disease, Mishra said.
Health authorities blamed unhygienic conditions for the spread of the disease, which has particularly hit Lucknow's Khadra neighbourhood."
Pakistan : 89 new cases of dengue fever detected
Via Pakistan Observer :
" Lahore : The number of dengue patients has risen rapidly in the public sector hospitals across the city during the last 24 hours as 89 new cases of dengue fever were reported in Lahore and 10 in other cities of the province.
According to details issued by the Health Department of Punjab, 35 cases of dengue fever were reported from Sir Ganga Ram hospital, 12 from Services Hospital, 13 from Ghurki Hospital 1 from Lahore General Hospital, 4 from Government Hospital Kot Khawaja Saeed, 8 from Institute of Public Health, 2 from Punjab Institute of Cardiology and 14 cases from private hospitals and clinics.
The total number of dengue patients has reached to 1048 in Punjab and 901 in the provincial capital alone."
" Lahore : The number of dengue patients has risen rapidly in the public sector hospitals across the city during the last 24 hours as 89 new cases of dengue fever were reported in Lahore and 10 in other cities of the province.
According to details issued by the Health Department of Punjab, 35 cases of dengue fever were reported from Sir Ganga Ram hospital, 12 from Services Hospital, 13 from Ghurki Hospital 1 from Lahore General Hospital, 4 from Government Hospital Kot Khawaja Saeed, 8 from Institute of Public Health, 2 from Punjab Institute of Cardiology and 14 cases from private hospitals and clinics.
The total number of dengue patients has reached to 1048 in Punjab and 901 in the provincial capital alone."
Thursday, October 28, 2010
WHO : Cholera in Haiti
WHO's notification with regards to the cholera situation in Haiti :
" 26 October 2010 : As of the evening of 25 October, the Ministry of Health of the Government of Haiti has reported 3 342 confirmed cases including 259 fatalities. Suspected cases are being investigated in the North and South departments, and five cases have been confirmed in the West Department, where the capital, Port-au-Prince is located.
Currently there are 12 cholera treatment centers being built to support isolation and treatment of cases: six in Artibonite, one in Central, and five in Port-au-Prince.
The emphasis is on prevention by ensuring clean water, promoting good personal hygiene, and food handling practices, including hand washing and trying to prevent defecation in open areas.
As just under half of reported deaths so far are taking place in hospitals, but more than half are in the community, PAHO is in the process of mobilizing experts in the area of proper body disposal to travel to Haiti.
WHO's Region for the Americas (PAHO) continues to mobilize international experts including epidemiologists, risk communication, case management, laboratory, water and sanitation, logistics, and LSS/SUMA (humanitarian supply management system) to Haiti and also to the Dominican Republic.
PAHO’s PROMESS (Program on Essential Medicine and Supplies) warehouse currently has stocks of medicines and antibiotics, and PAHO is procuring additional stocks of intravenous fluids and medical supplies."
" 26 October 2010 : As of the evening of 25 October, the Ministry of Health of the Government of Haiti has reported 3 342 confirmed cases including 259 fatalities. Suspected cases are being investigated in the North and South departments, and five cases have been confirmed in the West Department, where the capital, Port-au-Prince is located.
Currently there are 12 cholera treatment centers being built to support isolation and treatment of cases: six in Artibonite, one in Central, and five in Port-au-Prince.
The emphasis is on prevention by ensuring clean water, promoting good personal hygiene, and food handling practices, including hand washing and trying to prevent defecation in open areas.
As just under half of reported deaths so far are taking place in hospitals, but more than half are in the community, PAHO is in the process of mobilizing experts in the area of proper body disposal to travel to Haiti.
WHO's Region for the Americas (PAHO) continues to mobilize international experts including epidemiologists, risk communication, case management, laboratory, water and sanitation, logistics, and LSS/SUMA (humanitarian supply management system) to Haiti and also to the Dominican Republic.
PAHO’s PROMESS (Program on Essential Medicine and Supplies) warehouse currently has stocks of medicines and antibiotics, and PAHO is procuring additional stocks of intravenous fluids and medical supplies."
India : Viral deaths in Khadra due to dengueViral deaths in Khadra due to dengue
Via Times of India :
" LUCKNOW: The mystery has been solved. Majority of deaths due to `viral' fever in the city were due to dengue or a virus similar to it. This has been confirmed by a two-member committee comprising experts of Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj Medical University (CSMMU). The committee was formed by the state government to probe the cause of deaths in Khadra locality. The tests were conducted by the Sanjay Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS).
The CSMMU committee comprising Dr Kausar Usman and Dr Uday Mohan submitted its report to the state administration on Wednesday. The report probed the cause of death of 13 persons on October 14 and 15 in Khadra."
" LUCKNOW: The mystery has been solved. Majority of deaths due to `viral' fever in the city were due to dengue or a virus similar to it. This has been confirmed by a two-member committee comprising experts of Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj Medical University (CSMMU). The committee was formed by the state government to probe the cause of deaths in Khadra locality. The tests were conducted by the Sanjay Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS).
The CSMMU committee comprising Dr Kausar Usman and Dr Uday Mohan submitted its report to the state administration on Wednesday. The report probed the cause of death of 13 persons on October 14 and 15 in Khadra."
Pakistan : Dengue patients increase to 3000, 23 die of the fever
Via Dunya News :
" The number of dengue patients has risen to 3000 in the country whereas 23 people have died of the fever, Dunya News reported on Wednesday. According to the National Institute of Health, the dengue fever patients have reached 3138 in number. The deadly disease has affected the province of Sindh most.
In just 27 days the fever has affected more than 1346 people in the country. At least 63 people have been diagnosed with Dengue during the last 24 hours in Karachi. 44 people in Hyderabad, 3 in Sanghar whereas one person each in Larkana, Nawab Shah and Mir Pur Khas were tested positive for dengue fever in the current month.
903 people have been affected by the disease in Punjab whereas most patients have been found in the city of Lahore. 135 cases of the fever have been reported in KhyberPakhtunkhwa and 5 in Azad Kashnir. On the other hand 4 people have died of the fever in Rawalpindi/ Islamabad, 16 in Sindh, 2 in KhyberPakhtunkhwa and one in Azad Kashmir have died of this deadly disease."
" The number of dengue patients has risen to 3000 in the country whereas 23 people have died of the fever, Dunya News reported on Wednesday. According to the National Institute of Health, the dengue fever patients have reached 3138 in number. The deadly disease has affected the province of Sindh most.
In just 27 days the fever has affected more than 1346 people in the country. At least 63 people have been diagnosed with Dengue during the last 24 hours in Karachi. 44 people in Hyderabad, 3 in Sanghar whereas one person each in Larkana, Nawab Shah and Mir Pur Khas were tested positive for dengue fever in the current month.
903 people have been affected by the disease in Punjab whereas most patients have been found in the city of Lahore. 135 cases of the fever have been reported in KhyberPakhtunkhwa and 5 in Azad Kashnir. On the other hand 4 people have died of the fever in Rawalpindi/ Islamabad, 16 in Sindh, 2 in KhyberPakhtunkhwa and one in Azad Kashmir have died of this deadly disease."
More Northern Ireland swine flu cases expected
From BBC News :
" The Public Health Agency has said it expects more "sporadic cases" of swine flu in Northern Ireland in the coming weeks.
The PHA's Dr Brian Smyth was speaking after two cases of the virus were confirmed - the first in NI since the start of the year.
One case is a pupil at Ceara School in Lurgan - a special school for children with severe learning disability.
The other case, which is not linked, is a man from Northern Ireland.
Dr Smyth said he didn't expect the virus to circulate to the same extent as last year as many people would now have immunity to it."
" The Public Health Agency has said it expects more "sporadic cases" of swine flu in Northern Ireland in the coming weeks.
The PHA's Dr Brian Smyth was speaking after two cases of the virus were confirmed - the first in NI since the start of the year.
One case is a pupil at Ceara School in Lurgan - a special school for children with severe learning disability.
The other case, which is not linked, is a man from Northern Ireland.
Dr Smyth said he didn't expect the virus to circulate to the same extent as last year as many people would now have immunity to it."
16 die in cholera outbreak in northeast India
Via Xinhua :
" NEW DELHI, Oct. 27 : At least 16 people have died and 150 affected in a cholera outbreak in the northeast Indian state of Assam, reported the Indo-Asian News Service Wednesday.
Most casualties were reported from tea garden areas of the state and the victims were down with cholera due to poor hygiene conditions, said the report quoting health officials.
The victims were mostly from six tea gardens in Biswanath Chariali area in Sonitpur district, about 230 km north of Assam's main city of Guwahati. Most victims were down with the disease for the past week, said the report."
" NEW DELHI, Oct. 27 : At least 16 people have died and 150 affected in a cholera outbreak in the northeast Indian state of Assam, reported the Indo-Asian News Service Wednesday.
Most casualties were reported from tea garden areas of the state and the victims were down with cholera due to poor hygiene conditions, said the report quoting health officials.
The victims were mostly from six tea gardens in Biswanath Chariali area in Sonitpur district, about 230 km north of Assam's main city of Guwahati. Most victims were down with the disease for the past week, said the report."
Dengue alert: 8 patients hospitalised in Hyderabad
Via The Express Tribune :
" HYDERABAD : The number of dengue patients is increasing in Hyderabad as eight more patients have been admitted to Civil Hospital during the last 24 hours.
DDO Hyderabad Dr Ahmad Haider told express 24/7 that the total number of dengue patients in the district has reached 60.
He said 12 dengue patients are being treated at the Civil Hospital.
The district government of Hyderabad has started fumigation in different dengue-infested areas for the elimination of mosquitoes.
Dengue virus has so far claimed 16 lives in Sindh, with a total of 80 new cases emerging in the province.
The total number of positive cases in Sindh is reported to be about 1,668.
The provincial government gave Rs10 million to the Health Ministry to buy Rapid Antigen Kits which can detect the virus within six hours of testing.
This came as 65 patients were admitted in district hospitals, while 31 were admitted in civil hospitals of Hyderabad alone."
" HYDERABAD : The number of dengue patients is increasing in Hyderabad as eight more patients have been admitted to Civil Hospital during the last 24 hours.
DDO Hyderabad Dr Ahmad Haider told express 24/7 that the total number of dengue patients in the district has reached 60.
He said 12 dengue patients are being treated at the Civil Hospital.
The district government of Hyderabad has started fumigation in different dengue-infested areas for the elimination of mosquitoes.
Dengue virus has so far claimed 16 lives in Sindh, with a total of 80 new cases emerging in the province.
The total number of positive cases in Sindh is reported to be about 1,668.
The provincial government gave Rs10 million to the Health Ministry to buy Rapid Antigen Kits which can detect the virus within six hours of testing.
This came as 65 patients were admitted in district hospitals, while 31 were admitted in civil hospitals of Hyderabad alone."
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Swine flu hits Namibia
Via The Namibian :
" TESTS have confirmed that the H1N1 flu virus was responsible for the closure of the School for the Visually Impaired in Windhoek on Monday, after 65 children and four teachers fell ill during the past five days.
By late yesterday afternoon, official confirmation of the test results could not be given by the Ministry of Health and Social services. However, reliable sources did confirm that the test results came back positive for the H1N1 virus.
The School for the Visually Impaired on Monday confirmed that 65 children and four teachers had taken ill since last Thursday. In addition, two neighbouring schools sent pupils to hospital for tests. By late yesterday afternoon, the exact number of pupils and teachers who have confirmed H1N1 infections could not yet be confirmed.
A health official could confirm that all three schools were under close supervision and everyone needing treatment was receiving it. Today, ministry and health officials will hold a meeting to discuss an action plan. A well-placed health official said everything was under control."
" TESTS have confirmed that the H1N1 flu virus was responsible for the closure of the School for the Visually Impaired in Windhoek on Monday, after 65 children and four teachers fell ill during the past five days.
By late yesterday afternoon, official confirmation of the test results could not be given by the Ministry of Health and Social services. However, reliable sources did confirm that the test results came back positive for the H1N1 virus.
The School for the Visually Impaired on Monday confirmed that 65 children and four teachers had taken ill since last Thursday. In addition, two neighbouring schools sent pupils to hospital for tests. By late yesterday afternoon, the exact number of pupils and teachers who have confirmed H1N1 infections could not yet be confirmed.
A health official could confirm that all three schools were under close supervision and everyone needing treatment was receiving it. Today, ministry and health officials will hold a meeting to discuss an action plan. A well-placed health official said everything was under control."
India : Dengue cases in Delhi rise to 5215
An article from Samachar Today :
" With 75 fresh cases of dengue reported on Tuesday , the total number of Dengue cases in the national capital has gone up to 5215. Only 262 cases were reported in the corresponding period in 2009 while the figure stood at 1040 in 2008.
Eight people have died due to dengue so far compared to just one death last year. Of the 75 new cases, 72 were reported from MCD region, 2 from NDMC region while one was reported from Delhi Cantt area."
" With 75 fresh cases of dengue reported on Tuesday , the total number of Dengue cases in the national capital has gone up to 5215. Only 262 cases were reported in the corresponding period in 2009 while the figure stood at 1040 in 2008.
Eight people have died due to dengue so far compared to just one death last year. Of the 75 new cases, 72 were reported from MCD region, 2 from NDMC region while one was reported from Delhi Cantt area."
3 die of diarrhoea in mid-western Nepal
Via Xinhua :
" KATHMANDU, Oct. 27 : Diarrhoea that broke out in Pakha village of Kalikot district in mid-western Nepal claimed three lives, including two children Tuesday.
According to Wednesday's The Himalayan Times daily, lack of medicines and health workers have hit the patients hard, said a local Namraj Bista.
According to him, more than 15 Pakha villagers have fallen ill. He fears that the disease could turn into epidemic in the area, some 400 km west of Kathmandu."
" KATHMANDU, Oct. 27 : Diarrhoea that broke out in Pakha village of Kalikot district in mid-western Nepal claimed three lives, including two children Tuesday.
According to Wednesday's The Himalayan Times daily, lack of medicines and health workers have hit the patients hard, said a local Namraj Bista.
According to him, more than 15 Pakha villagers have fallen ill. He fears that the disease could turn into epidemic in the area, some 400 km west of Kathmandu."
Indonesia : Bird Flu Suspect Dies in Dr. M. Djamil, Padang
Hat tip to BGW at Flu Wiki for this. An article via Koran Digital :
" 4 Hours After getting treatment on disease isolation room in Dr M. Djamil Padang, Indri Rahmiwati patients suspected of suspect bird flu that comes from the village of Sungai Janiah Jorong Janiah River District talu Talamau Nagari West Pasmana District (Pasbar) died around 04.00 pm Monday (25/10).
Meanwhile, the Chief Medical Officer Pasbar Yandra Ferry accompanied Kasi Survelen and disaster prevention, Dr. Kasi Penangulangan Syafrida and Disease Prevention drg. Bosman Hirlund confirmed the incident (26/10).
He said, before getting treatment in disease isolation room in Dr M Djamil Padang, Indri Rahmi pendonor (5), was undergoing treatment at hospitals Pukesmas talu and pulled Pasbar. "Said Yandra. But because the condition is not recovered, then the medical team refers to Dr M Djamil Padang, with suspected bird flu. So when I got Dr M Djamil Padang, Indri Rahmi pendonor directly receive care in isolation rooms."
" 4 Hours After getting treatment on disease isolation room in Dr M. Djamil Padang, Indri Rahmiwati patients suspected of suspect bird flu that comes from the village of Sungai Janiah Jorong Janiah River District talu Talamau Nagari West Pasmana District (Pasbar) died around 04.00 pm Monday (25/10).
Meanwhile, the Chief Medical Officer Pasbar Yandra Ferry accompanied Kasi Survelen and disaster prevention, Dr. Kasi Penangulangan Syafrida and Disease Prevention drg. Bosman Hirlund confirmed the incident (26/10).
He said, before getting treatment in disease isolation room in Dr M Djamil Padang, Indri Rahmi pendonor (5), was undergoing treatment at hospitals Pukesmas talu and pulled Pasbar. "Said Yandra. But because the condition is not recovered, then the medical team refers to Dr M Djamil Padang, with suspected bird flu. So when I got Dr M Djamil Padang, Indri Rahmi pendonor directly receive care in isolation rooms."
Pakistan : Two more killed as dengue virus spreads across country
Via Daily Times, excerpt :
" Around 2,800 dengue fever cases surface in various cities
LAHORE: The fatal dengue virus is rapidly spreading across the country, while two more persons have died in Karachi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a private TV channel reported on Tuesday.After Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore and Haripur, the virus has now attacked Mianwali, where two dengue fever patients Muhammad Zubair and Hasan Nadim were brought to the hospital.
Over 2,800 mosquito bitten people had been brought to the hospitals across Pakistan due to the insufficient measures to control the rising threat of dengue fever. About 50 patients had been admitted in Lahore hospitals during the last 24 hours as the number of dengue patients in Punjab has reached 890.
The chief minister Sindh had issued Rs 10 million to the Sindh Health Department to curb the virus in Sindh.The Sindh Health Department on Tuesday provided an additional 100 packs of mega-platelet to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital so as to keep intact its stocks for patients brought with dengue fever."
" Around 2,800 dengue fever cases surface in various cities
LAHORE: The fatal dengue virus is rapidly spreading across the country, while two more persons have died in Karachi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a private TV channel reported on Tuesday.After Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore and Haripur, the virus has now attacked Mianwali, where two dengue fever patients Muhammad Zubair and Hasan Nadim were brought to the hospital.
Over 2,800 mosquito bitten people had been brought to the hospitals across Pakistan due to the insufficient measures to control the rising threat of dengue fever. About 50 patients had been admitted in Lahore hospitals during the last 24 hours as the number of dengue patients in Punjab has reached 890.
The chief minister Sindh had issued Rs 10 million to the Sindh Health Department to curb the virus in Sindh.The Sindh Health Department on Tuesday provided an additional 100 packs of mega-platelet to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital so as to keep intact its stocks for patients brought with dengue fever."
England : Swine flu 'claimed 70 young lives'
Via Yahoo :
" A total of 70 children and teenagers died from swine flu in England over a nine-month period between 2009 and 2010, it has been revealed.
Those from Bangladeshi and Pakistani communities, and with pre-existing conditions - especially neurological diseases such as cerebral palsy - were hardest hit.
However, a fifth of the young people who died were previously healthy.
Doctors said the evidence suggested that all children should be vaccinated against swine flu, especially those in high-risk groups.
The findings, from an investigation into the impact of swine flu on children and teenagers aged 18 and under, were published in an early online edition of The Lancet medical journal.
Researchers led by Professor Sir Liam Donaldson, former Chief Medical Officer for England, collected data over a nine-month period between June 26, 2009, and March 22, 2010."
" A total of 70 children and teenagers died from swine flu in England over a nine-month period between 2009 and 2010, it has been revealed.
Those from Bangladeshi and Pakistani communities, and with pre-existing conditions - especially neurological diseases such as cerebral palsy - were hardest hit.
However, a fifth of the young people who died were previously healthy.
Doctors said the evidence suggested that all children should be vaccinated against swine flu, especially those in high-risk groups.
The findings, from an investigation into the impact of swine flu on children and teenagers aged 18 and under, were published in an early online edition of The Lancet medical journal.
Researchers led by Professor Sir Liam Donaldson, former Chief Medical Officer for England, collected data over a nine-month period between June 26, 2009, and March 22, 2010."
Malaysia : Superbug detected in woman
An article via The Star, this would be the first ever case in Malaysia :
" GUA MUSANG: A superbug which is resistant to antibiotics has been detected in a 24-year-old woman, the first known case in Malaysia, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Liow Tiong Lai.
She has since recovered after receiving treatment at Ampang Hospital in Selangor for the past one month.
“Fortunately, she is only a carrier and we were able to extract the bacteria from her body,” Liow told reporters yesterday outside the nomination centre in Galas when he and other party leaders were accompanying the Barisan Nasional candidate Abdul Aziz Yusof to file his nomination papers.
“We are monitoring the patient closely to ensure the superbug is not transmitted to health workers and other patients,” he said.
Liow said the superbug, known scientifically as the NDM-1 (New Delhi metallo-lactamase-1), was not a threat to the patient and she was receiving regular attention at the hospital."
" GUA MUSANG: A superbug which is resistant to antibiotics has been detected in a 24-year-old woman, the first known case in Malaysia, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Liow Tiong Lai.
She has since recovered after receiving treatment at Ampang Hospital in Selangor for the past one month.
“Fortunately, she is only a carrier and we were able to extract the bacteria from her body,” Liow told reporters yesterday outside the nomination centre in Galas when he and other party leaders were accompanying the Barisan Nasional candidate Abdul Aziz Yusof to file his nomination papers.
“We are monitoring the patient closely to ensure the superbug is not transmitted to health workers and other patients,” he said.
Liow said the superbug, known scientifically as the NDM-1 (New Delhi metallo-lactamase-1), was not a threat to the patient and she was receiving regular attention at the hospital."
Indonesian tsunami kills 108, hundreds missing
Via Reuters :
" A tsunami that pounded remote islands in western Indonesia following an earthquake off the coast of Sumatra killed more than 100 people, officials said on Tuesday, and hundreds more were missing.
The 7.5 magnitude quake hit 78 km west of South Pagai, one of the Mentawai islands, late on Monday. Local legislator Hendri Dori Satoko told Metro TV the latest toll was 108 dead and 502 missing.
Most buildings in the coastal village of Betu Monga were destroyed, said Hardimansyah, an official with the regional branch of the Department of Fisheries.
"Of the 200 people living in that village, only 40 have been found. 160 are still missing, mostly women and children," he told Reuters by phone. "We have people reporting to the security post here that they could not hold on to their children, that they were swept away. A lot of people are crying."
Hardimansyah, who has only one name, said 80 percent of the houses in the area were damaged and food supplies were low.
A tourist boat carrying between eight and 10 Australians has been out of radio contact since the quake, Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in a statement."
" A tsunami that pounded remote islands in western Indonesia following an earthquake off the coast of Sumatra killed more than 100 people, officials said on Tuesday, and hundreds more were missing.
The 7.5 magnitude quake hit 78 km west of South Pagai, one of the Mentawai islands, late on Monday. Local legislator Hendri Dori Satoko told Metro TV the latest toll was 108 dead and 502 missing.
Most buildings in the coastal village of Betu Monga were destroyed, said Hardimansyah, an official with the regional branch of the Department of Fisheries.
"Of the 200 people living in that village, only 40 have been found. 160 are still missing, mostly women and children," he told Reuters by phone. "We have people reporting to the security post here that they could not hold on to their children, that they were swept away. A lot of people are crying."
Hardimansyah, who has only one name, said 80 percent of the houses in the area were damaged and food supplies were low.
A tourist boat carrying between eight and 10 Australians has been out of radio contact since the quake, Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in a statement."
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Dengue rapidly spreading across Pakistan
Via Samaa News :
" KARACHI: The deadly dengue virus is spreading rapidly across the country as two dengue fever patients have been brought to a hospital in Mianwali, while two more have died in Karachi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
After Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore and Haripur, the virus has now attacked Mianwali, a city situated hundreds of miles away from Lahore, where two dengue fever patients Muhammad Zubair and Hasan Nadim have been brought to a hospital.A
ccording to the latest dengue victim details, one more patient has died in Jinnah Hospital of Karachi. Deceased Salim was brought from Tando Allahyar for dengue treatment; he was 18 years old. After Salim, the death toll of Sindh’s dengue victims has mounted to 18."
" KARACHI: The deadly dengue virus is spreading rapidly across the country as two dengue fever patients have been brought to a hospital in Mianwali, while two more have died in Karachi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
After Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore and Haripur, the virus has now attacked Mianwali, a city situated hundreds of miles away from Lahore, where two dengue fever patients Muhammad Zubair and Hasan Nadim have been brought to a hospital.A
ccording to the latest dengue victim details, one more patient has died in Jinnah Hospital of Karachi. Deceased Salim was brought from Tando Allahyar for dengue treatment; he was 18 years old. After Salim, the death toll of Sindh’s dengue victims has mounted to 18."
WHO : Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) and Dengue in Pakistan
Another update from WHO, this time dengue in Pakistan :
" 25 October 2010 : As of 15 October, the IHR National Focal Point, Ministry of Health (MoH), Pakistan, has notified WHO of 26 cases, including 3 deaths, of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF). In addition, over 1500 laboratory-confirmed cases of dengue fever including 15 deaths have also been reported from Pakistan so far.
Both CCHF and dengue fever are endemic in Pakistan with seasonal rise in cases. However, recently, the transmission of both CCHF and dengue fever has intensified in the country with increased incidence and geographic expansion. The recent Pakistan floods may have contributed to this upsurge as a result of changes in risk factors for these diseases."
" 25 October 2010 : As of 15 October, the IHR National Focal Point, Ministry of Health (MoH), Pakistan, has notified WHO of 26 cases, including 3 deaths, of Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF). In addition, over 1500 laboratory-confirmed cases of dengue fever including 15 deaths have also been reported from Pakistan so far.
Both CCHF and dengue fever are endemic in Pakistan with seasonal rise in cases. However, recently, the transmission of both CCHF and dengue fever has intensified in the country with increased incidence and geographic expansion. The recent Pakistan floods may have contributed to this upsurge as a result of changes in risk factors for these diseases."
WHO : Cholera in Pakistan
From WHO :
" 25 October 2010 : On 12 October 2010, the Ministry of Health in Pakistan reported laboratory confirmation of 99 cases of Vibrio cholera 01 in the country. These cases were laboratory-confirmed by the National Institute of Health since the beginning of the flood until 30 September 2010. These cases have been reported sporadically from a wide geographical area in the flood-affected provinces of Sindh, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The Ministry of Health in Pakistan supported by the World Health Organization and other local and international partners are collaborating closely to prevent outbreaks of any disease, including cholera, and treat people affected by such illnesses. More than 60 diarrhoeal treatment centres are either operating or are soon to start functioning in the 46 most affected districts of the country.
Diarrhoeal diseases including cholera are among the most reported health conditions in many locations affected by the recent floods disaster in the country."
" 25 October 2010 : On 12 October 2010, the Ministry of Health in Pakistan reported laboratory confirmation of 99 cases of Vibrio cholera 01 in the country. These cases were laboratory-confirmed by the National Institute of Health since the beginning of the flood until 30 September 2010. These cases have been reported sporadically from a wide geographical area in the flood-affected provinces of Sindh, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The Ministry of Health in Pakistan supported by the World Health Organization and other local and international partners are collaborating closely to prevent outbreaks of any disease, including cholera, and treat people affected by such illnesses. More than 60 diarrhoeal treatment centres are either operating or are soon to start functioning in the 46 most affected districts of the country.
Diarrhoeal diseases including cholera are among the most reported health conditions in many locations affected by the recent floods disaster in the country."
India : Chikungunya count low as most cases go undetected
Via Times of India :
" NEW DELHI: After dengue, chikungunya is creating a scare among Delhiites and health agencies. MCD has reported 33 cases so far but its officials admit that cases are under-reported due to lack of availability of specialised kits to confirm the disease.
Both private and government hospitals are getting a large number of patients with acute to chronic joint pain. Patients are reporting to hospitals after high-grade fever. "It (chikungunya) is a poor cousin of dengue. It mimics dengue symptoms like fever, rashes, drop in platelets, etc, but the distinguishing symptom is acute joint pain," said Dr Sanjeev Bagai, CEO, Batra Hospital."
" NEW DELHI: After dengue, chikungunya is creating a scare among Delhiites and health agencies. MCD has reported 33 cases so far but its officials admit that cases are under-reported due to lack of availability of specialised kits to confirm the disease.
Both private and government hospitals are getting a large number of patients with acute to chronic joint pain. Patients are reporting to hospitals after high-grade fever. "It (chikungunya) is a poor cousin of dengue. It mimics dengue symptoms like fever, rashes, drop in platelets, etc, but the distinguishing symptom is acute joint pain," said Dr Sanjeev Bagai, CEO, Batra Hospital."
Pakistan : Dengue fever cases reported in Larkana
An article from Dawn :
" LARKANA, Oct 24: Two confirmed and three suspected cases of dengue fever were brought to hospitals in Larkana in recent days.
Prof Dr Hakim Abro, head of the department of medicine at the Chandka Medical College Hospital, said that the confirmed patients, Aneela, 18, and Kashif, 30, had been admitted recently and discharged after they recovered.
Imran, Meezan Ali and Ghulam Abbas were suspected to be suffering from dengue fever. Their test results, Dr Abro said, were being awaited."
" LARKANA, Oct 24: Two confirmed and three suspected cases of dengue fever were brought to hospitals in Larkana in recent days.
Prof Dr Hakim Abro, head of the department of medicine at the Chandka Medical College Hospital, said that the confirmed patients, Aneela, 18, and Kashif, 30, had been admitted recently and discharged after they recovered.
Imran, Meezan Ali and Ghulam Abbas were suspected to be suffering from dengue fever. Their test results, Dr Abro said, were being awaited."
Ducks transmit H5N1 virus through their respiratory system
Via Vetsweb, excerpt :
" The ‘classic’ avian flu virus H5N1 is causing a lot of worries and specualtions among experts. Juthatip Keawcharoen studied this virus and illustrated the role that wild animals, especially birds, play in its spread. Keawcharoen will defend her PhD thesis today (October 25th) at Utrecht University in the Netherlands.
The H5N1 virus strain has been circulating since 1997, primarily in Asia. Outbreaks of this virus has lead to widespread mortality among poultry, but has also spread to humans, often with deadly results. The virus does not yet spread from humans to other humans, but the potential of a human pandemic is still present. If the virus were to mutate into a variant that spreads from humans to humans, then the effects could be much more serious than that of the Mexican flu, in which the human mortality rate was 'only' 0.2%."
" The ‘classic’ avian flu virus H5N1 is causing a lot of worries and specualtions among experts. Juthatip Keawcharoen studied this virus and illustrated the role that wild animals, especially birds, play in its spread. Keawcharoen will defend her PhD thesis today (October 25th) at Utrecht University in the Netherlands.
The H5N1 virus strain has been circulating since 1997, primarily in Asia. Outbreaks of this virus has lead to widespread mortality among poultry, but has also spread to humans, often with deadly results. The virus does not yet spread from humans to other humans, but the potential of a human pandemic is still present. If the virus were to mutate into a variant that spreads from humans to humans, then the effects could be much more serious than that of the Mexican flu, in which the human mortality rate was 'only' 0.2%."
Indonesia : Balikpapan and Lampung - Baby rapid-tests negative, three others treated in Lampung hospital
From the always reliable Ida at Bird Flu Information Corner :
" Balikpapan : A bird flu suspected baby treated in Kanudjoso Djatiwibowo, apparently rapid test negative bird flu H5N1 done by the hospital.
Spokesman of the hospital, dr Maurits, said patient is in a good condition. However, hospital is still treating the patient until laboratory confirmation result has been issued from Jakarta."
" Balikpapan : A bird flu suspected baby treated in Kanudjoso Djatiwibowo, apparently rapid test negative bird flu H5N1 done by the hospital.
Spokesman of the hospital, dr Maurits, said patient is in a good condition. However, hospital is still treating the patient until laboratory confirmation result has been issued from Jakarta."
Monday, October 25, 2010
WHO : Influenza update - 20 October 2010
The latest influenza update from WHO, dated 20th October 2010, excerpt :
" Influenza - Update 119
20 October 2010 - Summary:
Influenza activity in the temperate regions of the Southern Hemisphere is continuing to decline. In most of the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere the level of activity is still low. Influenza virus A(H3N2) continues to be the most frequently detected virus world wide. Most of the influenza A(H3N2) viruses are A/Perth/16/2009-like,which is the virus strain included in the seasonal vaccines for the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
Southern hemisphere temperate countries
This winter's influenza season in the temperate countries in the southern hemisphere has peaked and is declining in most areas.
New Zealand's influenza activity has decreased since late August and is now under baseline for the third consecutive week. The most common influenza virus detected this season in New Zealand is H1N1 (2009). In Australia the influenza surveillance indicated an increase in the activity in the last week of September, Australia has had a co-circulation of mainly H1N1 (2009) and influenza B.
In the southern cone of South America, Chile continues to report high transmission of influenza but since mid September the activity has declined. The predominant virus circulating in Chile has been A(H3N2) with co-circulation of H1N1 (2009) in lower numbers. Detections of other respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus are also declining. Argentina and Uruguay have both had a season with mostly influenza type B, and are now reporting a decrease in number of virus detections."
" Influenza - Update 119
20 October 2010 - Summary:
Influenza activity in the temperate regions of the Southern Hemisphere is continuing to decline. In most of the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere the level of activity is still low. Influenza virus A(H3N2) continues to be the most frequently detected virus world wide. Most of the influenza A(H3N2) viruses are A/Perth/16/2009-like,which is the virus strain included in the seasonal vaccines for the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
Southern hemisphere temperate countries
This winter's influenza season in the temperate countries in the southern hemisphere has peaked and is declining in most areas.
New Zealand's influenza activity has decreased since late August and is now under baseline for the third consecutive week. The most common influenza virus detected this season in New Zealand is H1N1 (2009). In Australia the influenza surveillance indicated an increase in the activity in the last week of September, Australia has had a co-circulation of mainly H1N1 (2009) and influenza B.
In the southern cone of South America, Chile continues to report high transmission of influenza but since mid September the activity has declined. The predominant virus circulating in Chile has been A(H3N2) with co-circulation of H1N1 (2009) in lower numbers. Detections of other respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus are also declining. Argentina and Uruguay have both had a season with mostly influenza type B, and are now reporting a decrease in number of virus detections."
Nepal : Dengue shuts school - Students, teacher catch the disease
Via The Himalayan Times :
" CHITWAN: Siddhartha Secondary School at Belchowk in Bharatpur of this district has decided to shut from today for a week in view of a dengue outbreak in the district. Parsuram Poudel, the school’s head teacher, informed that classes said the school administration had taken this decision as dengue was confirmed in some people living around the school.
“The school has called on parents to help conduct a two-day awareness campaign on starting today,” Poudel said. Apart from students, teacher Santosh Poudel is also suffering from dengue. According to the head teacher Poudel, his school will launch a clean-up campaign from Tuesday in coordination with the local Ward Development Committee.
He informed that the school and the Chitwan District Public Health Office are set to go for fogging in the market area to contain the disease."
" CHITWAN: Siddhartha Secondary School at Belchowk in Bharatpur of this district has decided to shut from today for a week in view of a dengue outbreak in the district. Parsuram Poudel, the school’s head teacher, informed that classes said the school administration had taken this decision as dengue was confirmed in some people living around the school.
“The school has called on parents to help conduct a two-day awareness campaign on starting today,” Poudel said. Apart from students, teacher Santosh Poudel is also suffering from dengue. According to the head teacher Poudel, his school will launch a clean-up campaign from Tuesday in coordination with the local Ward Development Committee.
He informed that the school and the Chitwan District Public Health Office are set to go for fogging in the market area to contain the disease."
Cholera can be deadly within hours
A report from CNN, excerpt :
" Ten months after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, a cholera outbreak north of Port-au-Prince is responsible for the deaths of at least 138 people, a U.N. official said Friday. More than 1,500 other cases have been reported.
Cholera is a bacterial illness that causes severe diarrhea and dehydration and can be lethal within hours if a person is not treated."
" Ten months after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, a cholera outbreak north of Port-au-Prince is responsible for the deaths of at least 138 people, a U.N. official said Friday. More than 1,500 other cases have been reported.
Cholera is a bacterial illness that causes severe diarrhea and dehydration and can be lethal within hours if a person is not treated."
Horror disease hits Uganda
An Associated Press report :
" KAMPALA, Uganda : A disease whose progression and symptoms seem straight out of a horror movie but which can be treated has killed at least 20 Ugandans and sickened more than 20,000 in just two months.
Jiggers, small insects which look like fleas, are the culprits in the epidemic which causes parts of the body to rot. They often enter through the feet. Once inside a person's body, they suck the blood, grow and breed, multiplying by the hundreds. Affected body parts - buttocks, lips, even eyelids - rot away."
" KAMPALA, Uganda : A disease whose progression and symptoms seem straight out of a horror movie but which can be treated has killed at least 20 Ugandans and sickened more than 20,000 in just two months.
Jiggers, small insects which look like fleas, are the culprits in the epidemic which causes parts of the body to rot. They often enter through the feet. Once inside a person's body, they suck the blood, grow and breed, multiplying by the hundreds. Affected body parts - buttocks, lips, even eyelids - rot away."
Malaysia : Dengue on the rise
Via NST :
" Kampung Melayu residents are advised to be cautious following the spike in dengue cases.
The residents' committee has also been urged to organise more mass clean-up programmes to prevent the breeding of aedes mosquitoes.
Johor Baru City Council Kampung Melayu committee chairman Azman Dawam said there had been at least 20 cases of dengue since early this month.
Among the areas affected are Jalan Hujung, Jalan Sekolah and Jalan Merdeka in Kampung Melayu."
" Kampung Melayu residents are advised to be cautious following the spike in dengue cases.
The residents' committee has also been urged to organise more mass clean-up programmes to prevent the breeding of aedes mosquitoes.
Johor Baru City Council Kampung Melayu committee chairman Azman Dawam said there had been at least 20 cases of dengue since early this month.
Among the areas affected are Jalan Hujung, Jalan Sekolah and Jalan Merdeka in Kampung Melayu."
Pakistan : Woman tests positive for Dengue in Sargodha
An article via The News :
" KARACHI: The number of people being affected by Dengue fever is on the rise across the country as cases of Dengue have also been reported in Sargodha and Larkana.
A 30-year old woman was brought to District Headquarters Hospital, Sargodha where doctors confirmed her having contracted Dengue virus.The Health Department said it is first case of Dengue virus confirmed in the area.A diagnostic centre has been set up in Civil Hospital in Sargodha."
" KARACHI: The number of people being affected by Dengue fever is on the rise across the country as cases of Dengue have also been reported in Sargodha and Larkana.
A 30-year old woman was brought to District Headquarters Hospital, Sargodha where doctors confirmed her having contracted Dengue virus.The Health Department said it is first case of Dengue virus confirmed in the area.A diagnostic centre has been set up in Civil Hospital in Sargodha."
India : Chikungunya - Don't panic, take rest
Via Times of India :
" NEW DELHI: Due to a rise in the number of Chikungunya cases in the city, there is growing concern about the steps and precautions that need to be taken once someone is inflicted with the virus. Doctors warn that while severe joint pain and continuing weakness might be a cause for concern, utmost care needs to be taken to ensure that the patient gets adequate rest. Excessive medication must be avoided at all costs.
Dr Sanjeev Bagai, CEO, Batra Hospital said that normally, only paracetamol is sufficient to take care of the fever and antibiotics should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. "It is important to not over-drug the patient at this point specially since the patient would be showing extreme weakness and pain in the joints. Excessive medication may only end up precipitating the rashes that erupt in the course of the illness. Steroids can also end up causing diarrhoea. Only non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be given in severe cases," he said."
" NEW DELHI: Due to a rise in the number of Chikungunya cases in the city, there is growing concern about the steps and precautions that need to be taken once someone is inflicted with the virus. Doctors warn that while severe joint pain and continuing weakness might be a cause for concern, utmost care needs to be taken to ensure that the patient gets adequate rest. Excessive medication must be avoided at all costs.
Dr Sanjeev Bagai, CEO, Batra Hospital said that normally, only paracetamol is sufficient to take care of the fever and antibiotics should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. "It is important to not over-drug the patient at this point specially since the patient would be showing extreme weakness and pain in the joints. Excessive medication may only end up precipitating the rashes that erupt in the course of the illness. Steroids can also end up causing diarrhoea. Only non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be given in severe cases," he said."
Zimbabwe : Outbreak of swine flu in Matabeleland
Via The Standard :
" BULAWAYO : AN outbreak of the deadly influenza H1N1 commonly known as swine flu has been reported in Tsholotsho, Matabeleland North where two people have tested positive out of the 300 cases reported. Themba Moyo, the Tsholotsho district administrator on Friday wrote to Matabeleland North provincial administrator, Latiso Dlamini notifying her of the outbreak.“We hereby report on the outbreak of influenza H1N1 in Tsholotho District.
A total of 300 cases have been reported, seven tests done and two have been confirmed positive. Moyo said two vehicles, 600 litres of fuel, oxygen and NS fluids, among other things, were urgently needed to fight the outbreak.Moyo confirmed the outbreak to The Standard on Friday but referred all inquiries to Dlamini."
" BULAWAYO : AN outbreak of the deadly influenza H1N1 commonly known as swine flu has been reported in Tsholotsho, Matabeleland North where two people have tested positive out of the 300 cases reported. Themba Moyo, the Tsholotsho district administrator on Friday wrote to Matabeleland North provincial administrator, Latiso Dlamini notifying her of the outbreak.“We hereby report on the outbreak of influenza H1N1 in Tsholotho District.
A total of 300 cases have been reported, seven tests done and two have been confirmed positive. Moyo said two vehicles, 600 litres of fuel, oxygen and NS fluids, among other things, were urgently needed to fight the outbreak.Moyo confirmed the outbreak to The Standard on Friday but referred all inquiries to Dlamini."
Haiti cholera toll tops 250, but some slowing seen
An article via Reuters :
" A multinational medical response has slowed deaths in a Haitian cholera epidemic that has killed more than 250 people so far, but the outbreak is likely to widen, a senior U.N. official said on Sunday.
"We must gear up for a serious epidemic, even though we hope it won't happen," Nigel Fisher, the United Nations humanitarian coordinator in Haiti, told Reuters."
" A multinational medical response has slowed deaths in a Haitian cholera epidemic that has killed more than 250 people so far, but the outbreak is likely to widen, a senior U.N. official said on Sunday.
"We must gear up for a serious epidemic, even though we hope it won't happen," Nigel Fisher, the United Nations humanitarian coordinator in Haiti, told Reuters."
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Malarial deaths in India grossly underestimated by WHO
An article from The Hindu, excerpt :
" The number of deaths per year is almost 1,25,000, much more than the 15,000 estimated by WHO.
How many people die of malaria every year in India? According to the estimates of World Health Organisation (WHO), 15,000 (10,000 adults and 5,000 children) malarial deaths occur each year.
But a study published online today (Oct 21) in The Lancet points out that the numbers could be as high as 2,05,000 per year. The upper limit is around 2,77,000 and the lower limit is nearly 1,25,000.
This number for India alone is much higher than WHO's estimate of 1,00,000 deaths per year worldwide.
Trend already seen
The study underlines the fact that WHO estimates are a gross underestimation. Several studies in the past have shown that the number of deaths is more than WHO estimates.
The reason could be that WHO takes into account only those deaths that have been confirmed cases, and restricted to those seeking healthcare facilities. Also, the statistics are limited to a few high prevalent States (Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand) and northeast.
Can the results from small studies undertaken in select States or in select subpopulations, and only from those families that had access to healthcare facilities be extrapolated to arrive at a national estimate?"
" The number of deaths per year is almost 1,25,000, much more than the 15,000 estimated by WHO.
How many people die of malaria every year in India? According to the estimates of World Health Organisation (WHO), 15,000 (10,000 adults and 5,000 children) malarial deaths occur each year.
But a study published online today (Oct 21) in The Lancet points out that the numbers could be as high as 2,05,000 per year. The upper limit is around 2,77,000 and the lower limit is nearly 1,25,000.
This number for India alone is much higher than WHO's estimate of 1,00,000 deaths per year worldwide.
Trend already seen
The study underlines the fact that WHO estimates are a gross underestimation. Several studies in the past have shown that the number of deaths is more than WHO estimates.
The reason could be that WHO takes into account only those deaths that have been confirmed cases, and restricted to those seeking healthcare facilities. Also, the statistics are limited to a few high prevalent States (Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand) and northeast.
Can the results from small studies undertaken in select States or in select subpopulations, and only from those families that had access to healthcare facilities be extrapolated to arrive at a national estimate?"
Nigeria : Cholera claims 9 in Sokoto
Via Nigerian Tribune :
" AN outbreak of cholera at Lugu village, in Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto State, has claimed nine lives from October 7, 2010.
Nigerian Tribune discovered, on Wednesday, that the deceased included children and adults.
It was also confirmed that the victims were from the isolation camp set up in the village by the Medicines Sans Frontiers and assisted by health officials from the Wurno Local Government Area.
A local government health official overseeing the operations of the camp, Mallam Sambo Idris said so far 1,185 cases had been recorded at the camp.
He further stated that 18 patients were currently on admission at the camp while the rest had been discharged.
Contacted, the chairman of the local government , Alhaji Almustapha Isa Matawalle, attributed the problem to the contamination of sources of water due to the recent flood disaster in the area."
" AN outbreak of cholera at Lugu village, in Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto State, has claimed nine lives from October 7, 2010.
Nigerian Tribune discovered, on Wednesday, that the deceased included children and adults.
It was also confirmed that the victims were from the isolation camp set up in the village by the Medicines Sans Frontiers and assisted by health officials from the Wurno Local Government Area.
A local government health official overseeing the operations of the camp, Mallam Sambo Idris said so far 1,185 cases had been recorded at the camp.
He further stated that 18 patients were currently on admission at the camp while the rest had been discharged.
Contacted, the chairman of the local government , Alhaji Almustapha Isa Matawalle, attributed the problem to the contamination of sources of water due to the recent flood disaster in the area."
India : Fourth swine flu death in the city
Via Times of India :
" GURGAON: The city recorded its fourth swine flu death after a 32-year-old woman died at the Artemis Hospital on Wednesday. Asha Gupta, a resident of Patel Nagar, had been admitted to the hospital since September 29.
Asha died of multiple organ failure, said a health department official. The swine flu death comes after a gap of one and half months. As many as 83 confirmed cases of swine flu have been reported from the city so far this year. Dengue, meanwhile, too was on the rise in October with 35 to 40 cases being reported on an average each week. According to official figures, the number of dengue cases has gone up to 451. Besides, six deaths have also been reported. Around 59 blood samples are awaiting confirmation at the General Hospital. Most cases are being reported from private hospitals, said sources. Civil surgeon Praveen Kumar Garg said: The prevailing weather conditions are conducive for the breeding of dengue mosquitoes. Anti-larval measures and fogging activities are being carried out at places from where a high number of dengue cases have been reported."
" GURGAON: The city recorded its fourth swine flu death after a 32-year-old woman died at the Artemis Hospital on Wednesday. Asha Gupta, a resident of Patel Nagar, had been admitted to the hospital since September 29.
Asha died of multiple organ failure, said a health department official. The swine flu death comes after a gap of one and half months. As many as 83 confirmed cases of swine flu have been reported from the city so far this year. Dengue, meanwhile, too was on the rise in October with 35 to 40 cases being reported on an average each week. According to official figures, the number of dengue cases has gone up to 451. Besides, six deaths have also been reported. Around 59 blood samples are awaiting confirmation at the General Hospital. Most cases are being reported from private hospitals, said sources. Civil surgeon Praveen Kumar Garg said: The prevailing weather conditions are conducive for the breeding of dengue mosquitoes. Anti-larval measures and fogging activities are being carried out at places from where a high number of dengue cases have been reported."
New Zealand : Swine flu claims son
An article from Stuff :
" ALVIN STOCK didn't think it necessary to go to the doctor when he got the flu.
When he finally did it was too late.
Alvin was admitted to hospital with suspected pneumonia but the final diagnosis was swine flu and he was immediately put into an induced coma. He spent 46 days in this state.
Alvin's family thought his condition was improving and he would be able to go home when he was struck down with a fungal infection which attacked his lungs.
Alvin died on October 7 aged 52.
Now his father Alan Stock is warning others to get help sooner.
"Being the tough guy, Alvin didn't think he needed to go to the doctor," the New Lynn resident says.
"My message is if you're sick, go to the doctor.
"Especially for males – women generally have enough sense to go but men don't."
Alvin was a smoker but had no underlying health issues.
Two patients admitted to North Shore Hospital around the same time as Alvin also died of the disease. One was an asthmatic and one had heart problems.
The Health Ministry says the overall influenza activity has dropped but continued vigilance is important."
" ALVIN STOCK didn't think it necessary to go to the doctor when he got the flu.
When he finally did it was too late.
Alvin was admitted to hospital with suspected pneumonia but the final diagnosis was swine flu and he was immediately put into an induced coma. He spent 46 days in this state.
Alvin's family thought his condition was improving and he would be able to go home when he was struck down with a fungal infection which attacked his lungs.
Alvin died on October 7 aged 52.
Now his father Alan Stock is warning others to get help sooner.
"Being the tough guy, Alvin didn't think he needed to go to the doctor," the New Lynn resident says.
"My message is if you're sick, go to the doctor.
"Especially for males – women generally have enough sense to go but men don't."
Alvin was a smoker but had no underlying health issues.
Two patients admitted to North Shore Hospital around the same time as Alvin also died of the disease. One was an asthmatic and one had heart problems.
The Health Ministry says the overall influenza activity has dropped but continued vigilance is important."
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Indonesia : Bird Flu Cases Increase in Magelang
Translated report from Suara Merdeka :
" Magelang, CyberNews : Changes in extreme weather caused bird flu cases rise in Magelang District. Last year the chickens that died from the virus AI (Avian Influenza) 327 tail, now reaching 556 tails also tailed quail 1508.
"The case of bird flu occurred last year 11, until now already 17," said Ir John Ch Manglapy, Animal Health Section Chief, Department Peterikan (Animal Husbandry and Fisheries) Magelang regency, on Wednesday (20/10).The assurance that the data obtained after his side perform rapid test on samples of chicken and quail that died suddenly.
AI virus spread in seven districts, covering Ngluwar, Grabag, Secang, Mungkid, Borobudur, Kaliangkrik and Pakis.Prevention of bird flu can be done by always maintain the cleanliness of the cage and spray disinfectant. Animal Husbandry Department itself still has a supply of 350 liters and ranchers can request for free."
" Magelang, CyberNews : Changes in extreme weather caused bird flu cases rise in Magelang District. Last year the chickens that died from the virus AI (Avian Influenza) 327 tail, now reaching 556 tails also tailed quail 1508.
"The case of bird flu occurred last year 11, until now already 17," said Ir John Ch Manglapy, Animal Health Section Chief, Department Peterikan (Animal Husbandry and Fisheries) Magelang regency, on Wednesday (20/10).The assurance that the data obtained after his side perform rapid test on samples of chicken and quail that died suddenly.
AI virus spread in seven districts, covering Ngluwar, Grabag, Secang, Mungkid, Borobudur, Kaliangkrik and Pakis.Prevention of bird flu can be done by always maintain the cleanliness of the cage and spray disinfectant. Animal Husbandry Department itself still has a supply of 350 liters and ranchers can request for free."
Australian Influenza Surveillance 2010 - Latest report
Via Australia's Department of Health and Ageing :
" Report No. 40
Reporting period 2 to 8 October 2010
Summary
" Report No. 40
Reporting period 2 to 8 October 2010
Summary
- Levels of influenza-like illness (ILI) in the community increased through some surveillance systems this reporting period (ASPREN and WA EDs), while others (Flutracking and the National Health Call Centre Network) showed a decrease in ILI. Local, regional and widespread activity was reported within jurisdictions. The number of laboratory confirmed notifications continued to decrease nationally and in all states and territories.
- There were 339 laboratory confirmed notifications of influenza during this reporting period, including 222 pandemic (H1N1) 2009 cases. Notifications of laboratory confirmed influenza were highest in South Australia.
- Results from sentinel laboratory surveillance systems for this reporting period show that 17% of the respiratory tests conducted over this period were positive for influenza, which is the same as the last two reporting periods. In 2010, a total of 1,184 specimens have been positive for influenza."
Nigeria : Bauchi loses 474 persons to malaria
An article from Vanguard Online :
" Bauchi : No fewer than 474 people, particularly women and children under five years of age have lost their lives as a result of Malaria attack in Bauchi State, last year.
The Chairman of Bauchi State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS Tuberculosis /Leprosy and Malaria, BACATMA, Dr Rilwanu Mohammed, stated this Tuesday at the Flag off ceremony and distribution of anti malaria drugs and launching of vehicles for fighting malaria fever in Bauchi.
Rilwanu said: “Malaria is worse in the vulnerable group children less than five years of age and pregnant mother. children under five years old have up to three or four episode of Malaria attack in a yearbwhile 60% of adults including pregnant mothers have illness at leastbonce a year which result to loss of 300,000 lives annually in Nigeria, last year alone Bauchi state had lost 474 lives to malaria”.
Reiterating the commitment of the both Federal and State governments and donor agencies to reduce malaria by the end of 2010 and work towards Malaria free in Nigeria by 2015, he said part of the measures that the agency put in place to combat the menace was the procurement of anti malaria drugs, six field operations vehicles, 40 motorcycles, two media van for mobilization awareness in the rural areas and two Hilux bus that will be distributed to the local government areas and staffs of the agency to fight malaria in the state, adding that so far, the government has spent N95.5m.
Distributing the drugs and the vehicles purchased to the 20 local government areas of the state, the deputy Governor Babayo Garba Gamawa warned some of the workers in the state General Hospitals against sabotaging government programmes in giving health care services free of charge to the pregnant women and children under the ages of five and people suffering from leprosy, HIV/Aids and tuberculosis."
" Bauchi : No fewer than 474 people, particularly women and children under five years of age have lost their lives as a result of Malaria attack in Bauchi State, last year.
The Chairman of Bauchi State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS Tuberculosis /Leprosy and Malaria, BACATMA, Dr Rilwanu Mohammed, stated this Tuesday at the Flag off ceremony and distribution of anti malaria drugs and launching of vehicles for fighting malaria fever in Bauchi.
Rilwanu said: “Malaria is worse in the vulnerable group children less than five years of age and pregnant mother. children under five years old have up to three or four episode of Malaria attack in a yearbwhile 60% of adults including pregnant mothers have illness at leastbonce a year which result to loss of 300,000 lives annually in Nigeria, last year alone Bauchi state had lost 474 lives to malaria”.
Reiterating the commitment of the both Federal and State governments and donor agencies to reduce malaria by the end of 2010 and work towards Malaria free in Nigeria by 2015, he said part of the measures that the agency put in place to combat the menace was the procurement of anti malaria drugs, six field operations vehicles, 40 motorcycles, two media van for mobilization awareness in the rural areas and two Hilux bus that will be distributed to the local government areas and staffs of the agency to fight malaria in the state, adding that so far, the government has spent N95.5m.
Distributing the drugs and the vehicles purchased to the 20 local government areas of the state, the deputy Governor Babayo Garba Gamawa warned some of the workers in the state General Hospitals against sabotaging government programmes in giving health care services free of charge to the pregnant women and children under the ages of five and people suffering from leprosy, HIV/Aids and tuberculosis."
US : H1N1 virus suspected in teacher's death
An article from Appeal Democrat :
" A first-year teacher at Cedar Lane Elementary School in Olivehurst is believed to have died of H1N1 virus complications.
Gigi Cartoscelli-Purdie, 47, of Yuba City, died early Saturday at Rideout Memorial Hospital, her husband, Jeff, said today. Purdie had been sent home from school Friday morning with flu-like symptoms.
Jeff Purdie said his wife had been battling a persistent cough for a couple of weeks and suffering from walking pneumonia; she had not gotten a flu shot.
"But it just happened so fast," Purdie said.
Autopsy results are pending, but her family believes Gigi Purdie died from severe complications of the H1N1 virus. She had also experienced liver malfunction, her husband said.
Autopsy results were expected by Wednesday."
" A first-year teacher at Cedar Lane Elementary School in Olivehurst is believed to have died of H1N1 virus complications.
Gigi Cartoscelli-Purdie, 47, of Yuba City, died early Saturday at Rideout Memorial Hospital, her husband, Jeff, said today. Purdie had been sent home from school Friday morning with flu-like symptoms.
Jeff Purdie said his wife had been battling a persistent cough for a couple of weeks and suffering from walking pneumonia; she had not gotten a flu shot.
"But it just happened so fast," Purdie said.
Autopsy results are pending, but her family believes Gigi Purdie died from severe complications of the H1N1 virus. She had also experienced liver malfunction, her husband said.
Autopsy results were expected by Wednesday."
Malaysia : Villagers fear outbreak of bird flu
An article from New Straits Times, I'm not too sure why and how come these villagers are suspecting bird flu out of the sudden. Something we need a close eye on.
" TANGKAK: Villagers in Kampung Parit Medan are worried over a possible outbreak of bird flu virus following the sighting of the carcasses of hundreds of swiftlets and chickens in their village here.
What shocked the witnesses was that some birds that were perched on an electric cable suddenly fell to the ground and died.On Oct 11, resident Norodin Badri, 51, said he stumbled upon the mysterious death of swiftlets when he came out of a mosque at 4.30pm.
"I saw a group of swiftlets in various places near the mosque, such as at the playground and by the side of the mosque, and suddenly the birds, about 200 of them, just fell to the ground and died."
Norodin said some of the residents believed that the swiftlets had been struck by lightning."
" TANGKAK: Villagers in Kampung Parit Medan are worried over a possible outbreak of bird flu virus following the sighting of the carcasses of hundreds of swiftlets and chickens in their village here.
What shocked the witnesses was that some birds that were perched on an electric cable suddenly fell to the ground and died.On Oct 11, resident Norodin Badri, 51, said he stumbled upon the mysterious death of swiftlets when he came out of a mosque at 4.30pm.
"I saw a group of swiftlets in various places near the mosque, such as at the playground and by the side of the mosque, and suddenly the birds, about 200 of them, just fell to the ground and died."
Norodin said some of the residents believed that the swiftlets had been struck by lightning."
Malaysia : Dengue warning in Johor
Via The Star :
" MUAR: The Johor government had issued a warning on dengue fever and urged all residents to clean up their neighbourhood after a tenth victim died last week.
State Women, Family, Health and Community Development Committee chairman Dr Robia Kosai said the latest victim was a woman, aged 34, from Sarawak who lived in Kampung Melayu Majidee in Johor Baru.
She said the state Health Department was very concerned over the increasing deaths from dengue fever and wanted the public to keep their neighbourhood clean.
“We recorded only three deaths for the whole of last year but this year the number has reached 10 within 10 months.
“People should know that haemorrhagic dengue, can kill,” she said, at her hari Raya open house in Sungai Balang here."
" MUAR: The Johor government had issued a warning on dengue fever and urged all residents to clean up their neighbourhood after a tenth victim died last week.
State Women, Family, Health and Community Development Committee chairman Dr Robia Kosai said the latest victim was a woman, aged 34, from Sarawak who lived in Kampung Melayu Majidee in Johor Baru.
She said the state Health Department was very concerned over the increasing deaths from dengue fever and wanted the public to keep their neighbourhood clean.
“We recorded only three deaths for the whole of last year but this year the number has reached 10 within 10 months.
“People should know that haemorrhagic dengue, can kill,” she said, at her hari Raya open house in Sungai Balang here."
India : 65 fresh dengue cases reported in Delhi
Via Indian Express :
" Sixty-five new cases of dengue were reported in the national capital today, taking the total number of people affected by the mosquito-borne disease to 4,679 this season.
A total of 33 chikungunya cases have also been reported in the capital so far.
According to the MCD statistics, with 19 cases, Shahdara North Zone topped the list of fresh dengue cases today, followed by Rohini and Najafgarh (eight each) and Shahdara South (six)."
" Sixty-five new cases of dengue were reported in the national capital today, taking the total number of people affected by the mosquito-borne disease to 4,679 this season.
A total of 33 chikungunya cases have also been reported in the capital so far.
According to the MCD statistics, with 19 cases, Shahdara North Zone topped the list of fresh dengue cases today, followed by Rohini and Najafgarh (eight each) and Shahdara South (six)."
Pakistan : Dengue fever deaths rise to 12 in Karachi
Via The Statesman :
" KARACHI : The number of dengue induced deaths has risen to 12 in Karachi, Dr. Shakeel Mallick, In-Charge, Dengue Fever Surveillance Cell told APP on Monday.
He said the sudden increase in the number of deaths that till last weekend was six was because one of the city's prestigious hospital reported very late the six "dengue" deaths it had experienced between the months of April to September.
"They had the seventh death on Friday and this was communicated to the health department's surveillance along with previous six on Saturday only," he said.
Dr. Mallick regretted that many of the private sector hospitals, despite frequent reminders, do not cooperate with the cell as probably they preferred not to publicize deaths been registered by them on daily basis.
He agreed that some of the hospitals also lacked the culture of audit under which data must be compiled about patients admitted, their respective nature of ailments, recovery as well as mortality rates."
" KARACHI : The number of dengue induced deaths has risen to 12 in Karachi, Dr. Shakeel Mallick, In-Charge, Dengue Fever Surveillance Cell told APP on Monday.
He said the sudden increase in the number of deaths that till last weekend was six was because one of the city's prestigious hospital reported very late the six "dengue" deaths it had experienced between the months of April to September.
"They had the seventh death on Friday and this was communicated to the health department's surveillance along with previous six on Saturday only," he said.
Dr. Mallick regretted that many of the private sector hospitals, despite frequent reminders, do not cooperate with the cell as probably they preferred not to publicize deaths been registered by them on daily basis.
He agreed that some of the hospitals also lacked the culture of audit under which data must be compiled about patients admitted, their respective nature of ailments, recovery as well as mortality rates."
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
UN: Benin two-thirds flooded after heavy rains, 43 dead
Via BBC :
" The United Nations says two-thirds of the West African nation of Benin is flooded after heavy rains.
At least 43 people have been killed in recent weeks, according to UN officials, and nearly 100,000 people have been made homeless.
Unseasonably heavy rains have caused the Oueme and Mono rivers to overflow.
The UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (Ocha) says there have also been 800 reported cases of cholera.
Aid workers are concerned about a cholera epidemic as the disease is spread through contaminated water.
UN officials have been travelling around the country ascertaining the damage."
" The United Nations says two-thirds of the West African nation of Benin is flooded after heavy rains.
At least 43 people have been killed in recent weeks, according to UN officials, and nearly 100,000 people have been made homeless.
Unseasonably heavy rains have caused the Oueme and Mono rivers to overflow.
The UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (Ocha) says there have also been 800 reported cases of cholera.
Aid workers are concerned about a cholera epidemic as the disease is spread through contaminated water.
UN officials have been travelling around the country ascertaining the damage."
Pakistan : 45 new dengue cases surface in City
An article from The Nation in Pakistan :
" LAHORE : A spokesman of Health Department Punjab Monday said that 45 new cases of dengue fever had been reported during the last 24 hours raising the total number to 61 in Lahore and 215 in Punjab.
Nine dengue patients were under treatment in Services Hospital, five in Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, 22 in Mayo Hospital, 15 in Kot Khawaja Saeed Hospital, five in private hospitals whereas, 12 dengue patients were under treatment in Holy Family Hospital Rawalpindi, he said. Meanwhile 15 patients of dengue fever from Chakwal who were under treatment in Holy Family Hospital Rawalpindi have been discharged after recovery."
" LAHORE : A spokesman of Health Department Punjab Monday said that 45 new cases of dengue fever had been reported during the last 24 hours raising the total number to 61 in Lahore and 215 in Punjab.
Nine dengue patients were under treatment in Services Hospital, five in Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, 22 in Mayo Hospital, 15 in Kot Khawaja Saeed Hospital, five in private hospitals whereas, 12 dengue patients were under treatment in Holy Family Hospital Rawalpindi, he said. Meanwhile 15 patients of dengue fever from Chakwal who were under treatment in Holy Family Hospital Rawalpindi have been discharged after recovery."
Indonesia : The threat of bird flu re-emerged
Translated report from Wawasan Digital :
" Mertoyudan : The threat of bird flu (Avian Influenza (AI)) in Magelang regency, allegedly re-emerged, due to extreme weather. The spread of AI virus occurred in seven districts, each Ngluwar, Grabag, Secang, Mungkid, Borobudur, Kaliangkrik and Pakis. Last place in the region Mungkid, carrying at least 30's chickens, belong Sunarti, residents Ngrajak, Mungkid District, died suddenly of AI virus.
From the results of rapid test (rapid test) against a number of chickens were reported dead suddenly, all positive AI. "The number of chickens died suddenly reported from seven districts, as many as 556 chickens and 1508 quails chicken. After the tests, the results are all positive, "said Head of Animal Health, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries (Peterikan), John Mauglapy, yesterday.
Increased threat of AI virus attacks, according to him, among others, triggered by climate change are quite extreme. "Weather like this now became a favorite with the AI virus to multiply. So the fair this year more cases. Last year 11 cases, 17 cases now, "said John."
" Mertoyudan : The threat of bird flu (Avian Influenza (AI)) in Magelang regency, allegedly re-emerged, due to extreme weather. The spread of AI virus occurred in seven districts, each Ngluwar, Grabag, Secang, Mungkid, Borobudur, Kaliangkrik and Pakis. Last place in the region Mungkid, carrying at least 30's chickens, belong Sunarti, residents Ngrajak, Mungkid District, died suddenly of AI virus.
From the results of rapid test (rapid test) against a number of chickens were reported dead suddenly, all positive AI. "The number of chickens died suddenly reported from seven districts, as many as 556 chickens and 1508 quails chicken. After the tests, the results are all positive, "said Head of Animal Health, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries (Peterikan), John Mauglapy, yesterday.
Increased threat of AI virus attacks, according to him, among others, triggered by climate change are quite extreme. "Weather like this now became a favorite with the AI virus to multiply. So the fair this year more cases. Last year 11 cases, 17 cases now, "said John."
Australia : Latest dengue cases spark crackdown
An article from ABC News :
" The Townsville City Council will target North Ward this week as part of its campaign to stamp out dengue mosquito breeding sites.
The council says it is disappointed with the complacency of residents across the city after three more dengue cases were discovered in Railway Estate last week, bringing the latest outbreak to a total of 13.
Community safety and health committee chairman Dale Last says during door-to-door checks in the vicinity of the new cases it uncovered more than 20 properties with potential breeding sites."
" The Townsville City Council will target North Ward this week as part of its campaign to stamp out dengue mosquito breeding sites.
The council says it is disappointed with the complacency of residents across the city after three more dengue cases were discovered in Railway Estate last week, bringing the latest outbreak to a total of 13.
Community safety and health committee chairman Dale Last says during door-to-door checks in the vicinity of the new cases it uncovered more than 20 properties with potential breeding sites."
Malaysia : Worrying rise in dengue cases in Kluang
Via News Straits Times :
" KLUANG MP Dr Hou Kok Chung is worried because there has been a surge in the number of cases at the Kluang Hospital in the last two months.
"I decided to go to Jalan Intan 5 in Taman Intan, after the Health Department informed me that 12 dengue cases had been reported in this area," he said.
Dr Hou said several houses in the neighbourhood were in a neglected state. He said the backyards were overgrown with weeds and the drains were clogged up.
"The Kluang Municipal Council will take stern action against irresponsible house owners, due to their irresponsible attitude, others have to suffer the consequences."
" KLUANG MP Dr Hou Kok Chung is worried because there has been a surge in the number of cases at the Kluang Hospital in the last two months.
"I decided to go to Jalan Intan 5 in Taman Intan, after the Health Department informed me that 12 dengue cases had been reported in this area," he said.
Dr Hou said several houses in the neighbourhood were in a neglected state. He said the backyards were overgrown with weeds and the drains were clogged up.
"The Kluang Municipal Council will take stern action against irresponsible house owners, due to their irresponsible attitude, others have to suffer the consequences."
Brazil reports 15 deaths from cases of drug-resistant bacteria infection
Via Xinhua :
" BRASILIA, Oct. 18 : Brazil's Federal District reported on Monday 163 suspected cases of infection by a drug-resistant bacteria and 15 related deaths, according to the Brazilian Sanitary Surveillance (Anvisa).
The bacteria -- Klebsiella pneumoniae Carbapenemase (KPC) -- is resistant to most of the common antibiotics on the Brazilian market, the Anvisa said.
Of the 163 suspected patients in the capital, 48 remained hospitalized in 17 hospitals.
At the Base Hospital of Brasilia (HBB), there are 23 infected cases.Three patients died from the superbacteria in the hospital on Oct. 9.
"We are making an effort to control the infection. We divided the hospital into four sections -- one for people who had contact with infected patients, another for patients suspected of infection, the third for the carriers and the fourth for the normal patients," said the HBB director, Carlos Schmin."
" BRASILIA, Oct. 18 : Brazil's Federal District reported on Monday 163 suspected cases of infection by a drug-resistant bacteria and 15 related deaths, according to the Brazilian Sanitary Surveillance (Anvisa).
The bacteria -- Klebsiella pneumoniae Carbapenemase (KPC) -- is resistant to most of the common antibiotics on the Brazilian market, the Anvisa said.
Of the 163 suspected patients in the capital, 48 remained hospitalized in 17 hospitals.
At the Base Hospital of Brasilia (HBB), there are 23 infected cases.Three patients died from the superbacteria in the hospital on Oct. 9.
"We are making an effort to control the infection. We divided the hospital into four sections -- one for people who had contact with infected patients, another for patients suspected of infection, the third for the carriers and the fourth for the normal patients," said the HBB director, Carlos Schmin."
India : Chikungunya cases on the rise
Via Times of India :
" NEW DELHI: Even as the city is trying to fight the dengue menace, another mosquito-borne disease — chikungunya — is giving Delhiites a harrowing time. So far, Delhi has reported 33 cases of chikungunya. According to health officials, the number of chikungunya cases is under-reported. South Delhi colonies like Defence Colony and Greater Kailash have reported a high number of such cases.
"My daughter is bedridden for more than a week now. She is suffering from pain in the joints due to chikungunya . I was diagnosed positive for the disease about 15 days ago. Till now I am suffering from pain in the joints and my energy level is low," said 56-year-old Neelam Dhawan, a resident of C-Block, Defence Colony.
Several other residents in the area complained of similar problems. Said Sahil Malhotra, "There is an open drain in the colony and it has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Hence, dengue and chikungunya are on the rise."
" NEW DELHI: Even as the city is trying to fight the dengue menace, another mosquito-borne disease — chikungunya — is giving Delhiites a harrowing time. So far, Delhi has reported 33 cases of chikungunya. According to health officials, the number of chikungunya cases is under-reported. South Delhi colonies like Defence Colony and Greater Kailash have reported a high number of such cases.
"My daughter is bedridden for more than a week now. She is suffering from pain in the joints due to chikungunya . I was diagnosed positive for the disease about 15 days ago. Till now I am suffering from pain in the joints and my energy level is low," said 56-year-old Neelam Dhawan, a resident of C-Block, Defence Colony.
Several other residents in the area complained of similar problems. Said Sahil Malhotra, "There is an open drain in the colony and it has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Hence, dengue and chikungunya are on the rise."
WHO : Avian influenza – situation in Indonesia - update 4
From WHO :
" 18 October 2010 : The Ministry of Health of Indonesia has announced two new cases of human infection of H5N1 avian influenza.
A 35-year-old male from West Jakarta, Jakarta Province developed symptoms on 16 August, was hospitalized on 20 August and died on 27 August. Initial investigations into the source of his infection suggest a number of sudden chicken deaths occurred around the case’s house a week before onset.
The second case, a 40-year-old female from Kota Depok, West Java Province developed symptoms on 9 September, was hospitalized on 12 September and died on 17 September. Initial investigations into the source of her infection suggest exposure at a live bird market.
For both cases laboratory tests have confirmed infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus.
Of the 170 cases confirmed to date in Indonesia, 141 have been fatal."
" 18 October 2010 : The Ministry of Health of Indonesia has announced two new cases of human infection of H5N1 avian influenza.
A 35-year-old male from West Jakarta, Jakarta Province developed symptoms on 16 August, was hospitalized on 20 August and died on 27 August. Initial investigations into the source of his infection suggest a number of sudden chicken deaths occurred around the case’s house a week before onset.
The second case, a 40-year-old female from Kota Depok, West Java Province developed symptoms on 9 September, was hospitalized on 12 September and died on 17 September. Initial investigations into the source of her infection suggest exposure at a live bird market.
For both cases laboratory tests have confirmed infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus.
Of the 170 cases confirmed to date in Indonesia, 141 have been fatal."
Monday, October 18, 2010
10 H1N1 deaths in India during past week: Govt
Via Net Indian :
" Ten people died of influenza A (H1N1) in India during the week ended October 17, a statement from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare said here today, quoting information received from the States.
With this, the toll in the country since the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the swine flu as a pandemic in mid-June last year has gone up to 2616.
The WHO had, on August 10, declared an end to the pandemic but called for continued vigilance, pointing out that pandemics, like the viruses that cause them, are unpredictable.
Of the 10 deaths, 5 occurred in Gujarat, 2 in Madhya Pradesh and 1 each in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan.
The statement said 98 fresh cases of the flu were reported during the week from the country, including 34 in Tamil Nadu, 25 in Karnataka, 15 in Maharashtra and 14 in Rajasthan."
" Ten people died of influenza A (H1N1) in India during the week ended October 17, a statement from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare said here today, quoting information received from the States.
With this, the toll in the country since the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the swine flu as a pandemic in mid-June last year has gone up to 2616.
The WHO had, on August 10, declared an end to the pandemic but called for continued vigilance, pointing out that pandemics, like the viruses that cause them, are unpredictable.
Of the 10 deaths, 5 occurred in Gujarat, 2 in Madhya Pradesh and 1 each in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan.
The statement said 98 fresh cases of the flu were reported during the week from the country, including 34 in Tamil Nadu, 25 in Karnataka, 15 in Maharashtra and 14 in Rajasthan."
Vietnam : Dengue fever spreads in central provinces
Via Vietnam News :
" DA NANG : More than 256 dengue fever cases have been diagnosed in Da Nang during the past two weeks.
There have been about 3,000 confirmed dengue fever cases nationwide this year, a six fold increase over the same period last year, reported health officials.
"I have lived here for 10 years, but I have never seen so many mosquitoes," said Nguyen Thi Xuan Lan, a resident who lives in Thuan Phuoc Apartment.
She added that her family burns incense and uses electric fans around the clock to kill mosquitoes. Her two nieces were been hospitalised with dengue fever several days ago."
" DA NANG : More than 256 dengue fever cases have been diagnosed in Da Nang during the past two weeks.
There have been about 3,000 confirmed dengue fever cases nationwide this year, a six fold increase over the same period last year, reported health officials.
"I have lived here for 10 years, but I have never seen so many mosquitoes," said Nguyen Thi Xuan Lan, a resident who lives in Thuan Phuoc Apartment.
She added that her family burns incense and uses electric fans around the clock to kill mosquitoes. Her two nieces were been hospitalised with dengue fever several days ago."
India : Second dengue death in Mohali
An article from Indian Express :
" Mohali: Another dengue death was reported in Mohali on Sunday and this was the second death due to dreaded dengue fever here in the past 24 hours. A businessman of Patiala, RS Waraich, 52, died at Fortis Hospital here at 9.45 am this morning, an official spokesperson confirmed. “The patient had arrived at Fortis at 7.30 pm on Friday in a very critical condition with multi organ failure, renal failure and severe metabolic acedosis. He also had liver failure and severe thrombocytopenia (very low platelets) and shock (low blood pressure),” divulged the Fortis spokesperson, while confirming that he was dengue antigen positive patient."
" Mohali: Another dengue death was reported in Mohali on Sunday and this was the second death due to dreaded dengue fever here in the past 24 hours. A businessman of Patiala, RS Waraich, 52, died at Fortis Hospital here at 9.45 am this morning, an official spokesperson confirmed. “The patient had arrived at Fortis at 7.30 pm on Friday in a very critical condition with multi organ failure, renal failure and severe metabolic acedosis. He also had liver failure and severe thrombocytopenia (very low platelets) and shock (low blood pressure),” divulged the Fortis spokesperson, while confirming that he was dengue antigen positive patient."
Qatar : No new H1N1 outbreak
Via The Peninsula :
" DOHA: The Supreme Council of Health (SEC) has allayed fears of a new outbreak of H1N1 in Qatar following the death of a Qatari woman due to the illness.
Four people had died of H1N1 in Qatar since the beginning of this year, the fourth being the pregnant Qatari woman. However, such incidents are sporadic in nature and don’t indicate to a return of the pandemic, the SCH clarified yesterday. The Council, however, strongly urged the public, especially the high risk groups including pregnant women to get vaccinated against seasonal influenza as a precautionary measure.
The first death due to H1N1 this year occurred in January followed by two other deaths during summer. The SCH, however, didn’t announce these three incidents.
“We didn’t feel it necessary to announce each death because they were isolated incidents. There is no threat of a pandemic in Qatar at this moment. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also ruled out the possibility of a new outbreak of the disease,” said Dr Mohammed Al Thani, director of the Public Health Department at SCH told a press conference."
" DOHA: The Supreme Council of Health (SEC) has allayed fears of a new outbreak of H1N1 in Qatar following the death of a Qatari woman due to the illness.
Four people had died of H1N1 in Qatar since the beginning of this year, the fourth being the pregnant Qatari woman. However, such incidents are sporadic in nature and don’t indicate to a return of the pandemic, the SCH clarified yesterday. The Council, however, strongly urged the public, especially the high risk groups including pregnant women to get vaccinated against seasonal influenza as a precautionary measure.
The first death due to H1N1 this year occurred in January followed by two other deaths during summer. The SCH, however, didn’t announce these three incidents.
“We didn’t feel it necessary to announce each death because they were isolated incidents. There is no threat of a pandemic in Qatar at this moment. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also ruled out the possibility of a new outbreak of the disease,” said Dr Mohammed Al Thani, director of the Public Health Department at SCH told a press conference."
Pakistan : Karachi catches dengue fever: 12 dead, over 1,000 affected
Via Deccan Herald :
" Pakistan's biggest city and its main commercial hub Karachi is in the grip of dengue fever with over a thousand people testing positive for the disease this year and 12 deaths reported so far.
According to latest figures at different hospitals released by the provincial government's dengue surveillance cell, 12 persons died after testing positive for the disease which had assumed alarming proportions in 2006 and 2007.
"Since January this year, a total of 2,394 persons suspected of suffering from dengue fever were admitted to 46 hospitals in different areas of the city, out of which 1,265 have tested positive for dengue fever," an official of the surveillance cell of the Sindh health department said.Dengue fever has also spread to other cities of Pakistan, with 18 cases reported on Sunday from Rawalpindi.
Dr Shakeel Mullick, the chief person of the cell, said according to latest figures deaths from dengue included seven men and five women between the ages of 19 and 71 years."
" Pakistan's biggest city and its main commercial hub Karachi is in the grip of dengue fever with over a thousand people testing positive for the disease this year and 12 deaths reported so far.
According to latest figures at different hospitals released by the provincial government's dengue surveillance cell, 12 persons died after testing positive for the disease which had assumed alarming proportions in 2006 and 2007.
"Since January this year, a total of 2,394 persons suspected of suffering from dengue fever were admitted to 46 hospitals in different areas of the city, out of which 1,265 have tested positive for dengue fever," an official of the surveillance cell of the Sindh health department said.Dengue fever has also spread to other cities of Pakistan, with 18 cases reported on Sunday from Rawalpindi.
Dr Shakeel Mullick, the chief person of the cell, said according to latest figures deaths from dengue included seven men and five women between the ages of 19 and 71 years."
Philippines : Dengue cases drop but deaths rise to 20
Via Panay News :
" ROXAS City : Dengue cases in Capiz are continuously decreasing; dengue-caused deaths, however, rose to 20.
The latest fatality was a 10-year-old girl from Brgy. Davao here. She died in the Saint Anthony College Hospital on October 6.
Only 22 new dengue cases in the province were recorded from September 26–October 2, dropping to 20 new cases the following week, according to the Capiz Epidemiological Surveillance and Response Unit (CESRU) of the Provincial Health Office (PHO).
There were only 237 cases last month compared to the 1,059 cases in August, the PHO-CESRU.Dengue cases last month were lower than the 280 cases in June, records showed.
Capiz posted the highest number of dengue cases on August, prompting the provincial government to declare the entire province under a state of calamity."
" ROXAS City : Dengue cases in Capiz are continuously decreasing; dengue-caused deaths, however, rose to 20.
The latest fatality was a 10-year-old girl from Brgy. Davao here. She died in the Saint Anthony College Hospital on October 6.
Only 22 new dengue cases in the province were recorded from September 26–October 2, dropping to 20 new cases the following week, according to the Capiz Epidemiological Surveillance and Response Unit (CESRU) of the Provincial Health Office (PHO).
There were only 237 cases last month compared to the 1,059 cases in August, the PHO-CESRU.Dengue cases last month were lower than the 280 cases in June, records showed.
Capiz posted the highest number of dengue cases on August, prompting the provincial government to declare the entire province under a state of calamity."
India : Positive case reported, 124 more under Home Quarantine
Via New Kerala :
" Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 17 : Adding to the growing concern due to the spread of H1N1, one more person tested positive to the disease in Kozhikode disrtict of Kerala today.
According to the State H1N1 Control room here, about 124 more people were placed under Home Quarantine in various districts in the State for the last two days.
Two patients were placed under Hospital Quarantine and the throat swabs of four patients have been sent for lab test, it said."
" Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 17 : Adding to the growing concern due to the spread of H1N1, one more person tested positive to the disease in Kozhikode disrtict of Kerala today.
According to the State H1N1 Control room here, about 124 more people were placed under Home Quarantine in various districts in the State for the last two days.
Two patients were placed under Hospital Quarantine and the throat swabs of four patients have been sent for lab test, it said."
Deadly flu outbreak hits Zimbabwe
An article from The Sunday Mail :
" A LIFE-THREATENING flu bug with symptoms similar to those of the deadly H1N1 virus has hit all of the country’s 10 provinces affecting thousands of people.
Confirming the outbreak last week, Dr Portia Manangazira of the Epidemiology and Disease Control Unit in the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare said the flu bug might be a combination of H1N1 (swine flu) and H3N2 (common cold flu).
“There is a spread of a combination of H1N1 and H3N2 countrywide but cases of common cold flu are usually reported between May and September,” said Dr Manangazira. She urged all those who show signs and symptoms of cold to seek medication as soon as possible as common cold flu can also be deadly."
" A LIFE-THREATENING flu bug with symptoms similar to those of the deadly H1N1 virus has hit all of the country’s 10 provinces affecting thousands of people.
Confirming the outbreak last week, Dr Portia Manangazira of the Epidemiology and Disease Control Unit in the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare said the flu bug might be a combination of H1N1 (swine flu) and H3N2 (common cold flu).
“There is a spread of a combination of H1N1 and H3N2 countrywide but cases of common cold flu are usually reported between May and September,” said Dr Manangazira. She urged all those who show signs and symptoms of cold to seek medication as soon as possible as common cold flu can also be deadly."
Japan : 2 superbug-infected inpatients die at Mie hospital
Thanks to Chen Qi :
" Sunday 17th October, 05:33 AM JST TSU : Two inpatients at a hospital in Mie Prefecture became infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and later died of symptoms such as blood poisoning, the hospital said Saturday.
The Mie Prefectural Medical Center said a possible causal link between the infection with multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the deaths cannot be denied, and that it is strengthening measures to prevent infection, while testing other inpatients for possible infections.
The hospital said one of the two, an advanced-age man, was found to be infected with the bacteria during a medical examination following his transfer to the hospital with pneumonia on Sept 17. He died of pneumonia on Oct 4.
The other patient, an elderly woman, was found infected on Thursday and died of blood poisoning the following day.Pseudomonas aeruginosa is resistant to many antibacterial agents and infects people with compromised immune systems by contact. "
" Sunday 17th October, 05:33 AM JST TSU : Two inpatients at a hospital in Mie Prefecture became infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and later died of symptoms such as blood poisoning, the hospital said Saturday.
The Mie Prefectural Medical Center said a possible causal link between the infection with multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the deaths cannot be denied, and that it is strengthening measures to prevent infection, while testing other inpatients for possible infections.
The hospital said one of the two, an advanced-age man, was found to be infected with the bacteria during a medical examination following his transfer to the hospital with pneumonia on Sept 17. He died of pneumonia on Oct 4.
The other patient, an elderly woman, was found infected on Thursday and died of blood poisoning the following day.Pseudomonas aeruginosa is resistant to many antibacterial agents and infects people with compromised immune systems by contact. "
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Pakistan : Six more die of dengue fever
Via Daily Times :
" KARACHI: Six people died of the deadly dengue virus in the city during last 24 hours, raising the death toll to 12. Provincial Dengue Surveillance Cell head Dr Shakeel Malik said five people died of dengue in September while seven fell victim to the disease in October.
Six deaths were reported from the Aga Khan Hospital while six in other hospitals of the province including seven men and five women, he added. Dozens of people with symptoms of dengue and high fever are being reported daily from government and private hospitals, however, the provincial and federal governments seem the least concerned to take any precautionary measures."
" KARACHI: Six people died of the deadly dengue virus in the city during last 24 hours, raising the death toll to 12. Provincial Dengue Surveillance Cell head Dr Shakeel Malik said five people died of dengue in September while seven fell victim to the disease in October.
Six deaths were reported from the Aga Khan Hospital while six in other hospitals of the province including seven men and five women, he added. Dozens of people with symptoms of dengue and high fever are being reported daily from government and private hospitals, however, the provincial and federal governments seem the least concerned to take any precautionary measures."
Qatar : Woman dies of H1N1 virus
Via Gulf Times :
" A 26-year-old Qatari woman has died from H1N1 flu virus, the Supreme Council of Health announced yesterday.
Her death brings the total number of H1N1 victims in Qatar to 11 since the first case in August last year.
The last death from the virus was on January 10.
The latest victim, who was 29 months pregnant, was admitted to Hamad Hospital on October 10, suffering from acute pneumonia and high fever. She was treated as a suspected H1N1 case.
Public Health director Dr Mohamed al-Thani said the twins she was bearing had been rescued and were under close observation now."
" A 26-year-old Qatari woman has died from H1N1 flu virus, the Supreme Council of Health announced yesterday.
Her death brings the total number of H1N1 victims in Qatar to 11 since the first case in August last year.
The last death from the virus was on January 10.
The latest victim, who was 29 months pregnant, was admitted to Hamad Hospital on October 10, suffering from acute pneumonia and high fever. She was treated as a suspected H1N1 case.
Public Health director Dr Mohamed al-Thani said the twins she was bearing had been rescued and were under close observation now."
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Indonesia : Bird Flu case report until September 2010
This is an official press release from Indonesia's Ministry of Health, reports 2 confirmed human bird flu cases, both of whom has died :
" Until the end of September, positive cases of bird flu (H5N1) added two cases, ie MM (M, 35 years) who lives in West Jakarta, and LH (P, 40 years) who Depok West Java, based on the results of the Central Laboratory of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Research and Development Agency. MM (L, 35 years) onset of illness on August 16, 2010 with symptoms of fever. Two days later went to private clinics. Because pain is not better even gain weight, 2 days later went to the general practitioner who then directly referred to a hospital in West Jakarta.
On August 24, patients diagnosed with suspected bird flu and taken straight nose and throat swab specimens. However, the patient's condition worsened with severe pneumonia symptoms. Date August 27, 2010 patients died.
LH (P, 40 years) housewife, began to sick 9 September 2010 with symptoms of fever, cough, and runny nose. On September 12 new patients treated at the emergency room at a hospital in East Jakarta. The next day the patient was treated in another hospital. Three days of treatment, patient condition has not improved, even appeared crowded. Lung X-rays showed a picture of pneumonia. The doctor who treated bird flu suspect then diagnose and refer him to the Friendship Hospital on October 16, 2010.
In AI referral hospital, the patient was treated in isolation rooms and given standard therapy. Patients also taken specimens of throat and nasal swabs. Lung X-rays showed pneumonia expanding and worsening. Finally the patient died on September 17, 2010.
Director General of Disease Control and Environmental Health as the focal point Kemenkes IHR (International Health Reagulation) has been informed about the case to the WHO."
" Until the end of September, positive cases of bird flu (H5N1) added two cases, ie MM (M, 35 years) who lives in West Jakarta, and LH (P, 40 years) who Depok West Java, based on the results of the Central Laboratory of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Research and Development Agency. MM (L, 35 years) onset of illness on August 16, 2010 with symptoms of fever. Two days later went to private clinics. Because pain is not better even gain weight, 2 days later went to the general practitioner who then directly referred to a hospital in West Jakarta.
On August 24, patients diagnosed with suspected bird flu and taken straight nose and throat swab specimens. However, the patient's condition worsened with severe pneumonia symptoms. Date August 27, 2010 patients died.
LH (P, 40 years) housewife, began to sick 9 September 2010 with symptoms of fever, cough, and runny nose. On September 12 new patients treated at the emergency room at a hospital in East Jakarta. The next day the patient was treated in another hospital. Three days of treatment, patient condition has not improved, even appeared crowded. Lung X-rays showed a picture of pneumonia. The doctor who treated bird flu suspect then diagnose and refer him to the Friendship Hospital on October 16, 2010.
In AI referral hospital, the patient was treated in isolation rooms and given standard therapy. Patients also taken specimens of throat and nasal swabs. Lung X-rays showed pneumonia expanding and worsening. Finally the patient died on September 17, 2010.
Director General of Disease Control and Environmental Health as the focal point Kemenkes IHR (International Health Reagulation) has been informed about the case to the WHO."
Pakistan : 83 more dengue patients hospitalised
An article from Daily Times, more dengue patients in Karachi :
" KARACHI: Eighty-three new dengue suspects were hospitalised during the last 24 hours, said the Sindh Health Department spokesman on Friday. He said the health department was trying to educate masses through media about the threat of dengue, adding that seminars are being held at various hospitals to inform the masses on the disease. According to the Provincial Dengue Surveillance Cell (PDSC), 2,400 suspected dengue cases have been reported since January 1, out of which 1,265 were positive while 1,135 were negative, the spokesman said. Six deaths have been reported so far from five hospitals of the city."
" KARACHI: Eighty-three new dengue suspects were hospitalised during the last 24 hours, said the Sindh Health Department spokesman on Friday. He said the health department was trying to educate masses through media about the threat of dengue, adding that seminars are being held at various hospitals to inform the masses on the disease. According to the Provincial Dengue Surveillance Cell (PDSC), 2,400 suspected dengue cases have been reported since January 1, out of which 1,265 were positive while 1,135 were negative, the spokesman said. Six deaths have been reported so far from five hospitals of the city."
Indonesia : Drastic drop in bird flu cases this year
Via Jakarta Post :
" Bird flu cases have dropped by more than 50 percent this year but people are warned to stay alert since the virus is still a threat to poultry, a health official says.
Health Ministry Director General for Disease Control and Environmental Health, Tjandra Yoga Aditama, said that the number of avian or bird flu fatalities among humans in Indonesia this year had dropped compared to last year.
“One or two cases have been detected a few months ago,” he said after taking part in the Global Handwashing Day campaign, attended by some 1,000 elementary school students, in the West Java provincial capital of Bandung on Friday.
Ministry data recorded that between Jan. 1 to Dec. 28 last year, 20 H5N1 bird flu cases were
recorded, causing 19 deaths.
Between 2005 and 2010, the ministry recorded 166 cases of humans catching bird flu, of whom 137 died.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of deaths due to the H5N1 virus in Indonesia decreased steadily from 45 in 2006, to 37 in 2007 and to 19 in 2009.
Tjandra said bird flu cases across the world have dropped drastically although several countries, such as Indonesia and Egypt, still report some infections.
Meanwhile the WHO itself announced a month ago that the H1N1 swine flu pandemic has passed, he added.
Tjandra said that in the country, only cases of poultry-to-human infections of the H5N1 virus had been recorded so far, and no human-to-human transmission."
" Bird flu cases have dropped by more than 50 percent this year but people are warned to stay alert since the virus is still a threat to poultry, a health official says.
Health Ministry Director General for Disease Control and Environmental Health, Tjandra Yoga Aditama, said that the number of avian or bird flu fatalities among humans in Indonesia this year had dropped compared to last year.
“One or two cases have been detected a few months ago,” he said after taking part in the Global Handwashing Day campaign, attended by some 1,000 elementary school students, in the West Java provincial capital of Bandung on Friday.
Ministry data recorded that between Jan. 1 to Dec. 28 last year, 20 H5N1 bird flu cases were
recorded, causing 19 deaths.
Between 2005 and 2010, the ministry recorded 166 cases of humans catching bird flu, of whom 137 died.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of deaths due to the H5N1 virus in Indonesia decreased steadily from 45 in 2006, to 37 in 2007 and to 19 in 2009.
Tjandra said bird flu cases across the world have dropped drastically although several countries, such as Indonesia and Egypt, still report some infections.
Meanwhile the WHO itself announced a month ago that the H1N1 swine flu pandemic has passed, he added.
Tjandra said that in the country, only cases of poultry-to-human infections of the H5N1 virus had been recorded so far, and no human-to-human transmission."
Australia : Dengue outbreak fears
An article from Townsville Bulletin :
" TOWNSVILLE could be facing a widespread outbreak of dengue fever this wet season, health experts warn.
Residents have been warned to take responsibility for their own backyards and ensure they are not harbouring breeding sites for the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which carries the disease.
The Queensland Health warning follows the confirmation of three locally-acquired cases in the same household in Railway Estate yesterday, with fears recent rainfall and the fast-approaching wet season could see more residents contract the virus.
The latest type 2 cases are believed to be a continuation of an outbreak which started in Hermit Park in June which resulted in 10 type 2 cases diagnosed, the most recent just last month."
" TOWNSVILLE could be facing a widespread outbreak of dengue fever this wet season, health experts warn.
Residents have been warned to take responsibility for their own backyards and ensure they are not harbouring breeding sites for the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which carries the disease.
The Queensland Health warning follows the confirmation of three locally-acquired cases in the same household in Railway Estate yesterday, with fears recent rainfall and the fast-approaching wet season could see more residents contract the virus.
The latest type 2 cases are believed to be a continuation of an outbreak which started in Hermit Park in June which resulted in 10 type 2 cases diagnosed, the most recent just last month."
Nicaragua's leptospirosis death toll increases to 17
Via Xinhua :
" MANAGUA, Oct. 15 : The Nicaraguan Health Ministry on Friday reported nine new deaths of leptospirosis in Leon department, to make a total of 17 deaths in the country due to this disease.
The ministry also said that there are 91 confirmed cases more, including 73 were registered in Leon department, 93 km northwest from Managua."
" MANAGUA, Oct. 15 : The Nicaraguan Health Ministry on Friday reported nine new deaths of leptospirosis in Leon department, to make a total of 17 deaths in the country due to this disease.
The ministry also said that there are 91 confirmed cases more, including 73 were registered in Leon department, 93 km northwest from Managua."
Malaysia : More dengue fever cases recorded this year, says Ismail
Via The Star, excerpt :
" KUALA LUMPUR: Dengue fever cases climbed by 18% to 38,330 between January and Oct 9 compared to the corresponding period last year, said Director-General of Health Tan Sri Dr Mohd Ismail Merican.
He said dengue deaths rose by 62% to 117 deaths during the period against 72 in the corresponding period last year.
However, he said dengue cases dropped by two to 911 last week (Oct 3 to 9) compared to the previous week and no deaths were reported.
Six states registered rising dengue cases last week, namely Terengganu (35 cases), Johor (33), Sabah (11), Malacca (three), Kedah and Sarawak (two each), he said in a statement.
Dr Mohd Ismail said of 228 areas monitored nationwide last week, 35 were identified as hot spots with 480 dengue cases reported with 57% of the locations having Aedes mosquito breeding."
" KUALA LUMPUR: Dengue fever cases climbed by 18% to 38,330 between January and Oct 9 compared to the corresponding period last year, said Director-General of Health Tan Sri Dr Mohd Ismail Merican.
He said dengue deaths rose by 62% to 117 deaths during the period against 72 in the corresponding period last year.
However, he said dengue cases dropped by two to 911 last week (Oct 3 to 9) compared to the previous week and no deaths were reported.
Six states registered rising dengue cases last week, namely Terengganu (35 cases), Johor (33), Sabah (11), Malacca (three), Kedah and Sarawak (two each), he said in a statement.
Dr Mohd Ismail said of 228 areas monitored nationwide last week, 35 were identified as hot spots with 480 dengue cases reported with 57% of the locations having Aedes mosquito breeding."
India : Dengue spreads tentacles in steel city
Via The Telegraph :
" 27-year-old dies of suspected disease, lack of awareness blamed for rising cases
Jamshedpur, Oct. 15: A slew of measures notwithstanding, dengue is refusing to ease its grip on the steel city, which saw its latest fatality yesterday.
Twenty-seven-year-old Sumitra Mahto of Ichagarh, who was admitted to Tata Main Hospital (TMH) with fever a few days ago, died of suspected dengue, taking the toll to three since September.
According to sources in the health department, Sumitra was first admitted to MGM Medical College and Hospital, but as her condition deteriorated, she was shifted to TMH. Last month, 17-year-old Sagar Purty and a doctor, B.M. Nayak, had died of dengue.
So far, 232 suspected cases have been reported from various hospitals and nursing homes in and around the city though the East Singhbhum district civil surgeon’s office has not confirmed the figure.
District epidemiologist Satish Tripathi said, currently, 54 patients were under treatment at TMH. Elaborating on the pattern of rise in number of suspected dengue cases, he said 20 were reported on October 11, followed by 12 each on October 12, 13 and October 14. Three patients are at present admitted to MGM Medical College and Hospital."
" 27-year-old dies of suspected disease, lack of awareness blamed for rising cases
Jamshedpur, Oct. 15: A slew of measures notwithstanding, dengue is refusing to ease its grip on the steel city, which saw its latest fatality yesterday.
Twenty-seven-year-old Sumitra Mahto of Ichagarh, who was admitted to Tata Main Hospital (TMH) with fever a few days ago, died of suspected dengue, taking the toll to three since September.
According to sources in the health department, Sumitra was first admitted to MGM Medical College and Hospital, but as her condition deteriorated, she was shifted to TMH. Last month, 17-year-old Sagar Purty and a doctor, B.M. Nayak, had died of dengue.
So far, 232 suspected cases have been reported from various hospitals and nursing homes in and around the city though the East Singhbhum district civil surgeon’s office has not confirmed the figure.
District epidemiologist Satish Tripathi said, currently, 54 patients were under treatment at TMH. Elaborating on the pattern of rise in number of suspected dengue cases, he said 20 were reported on October 11, followed by 12 each on October 12, 13 and October 14. Three patients are at present admitted to MGM Medical College and Hospital."
Hong Kong : Update on cluster of human swine influenza cases in a female Infirmary ward at TWGHs Wong Tai Sin Hospital
From Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" Regarding some patients being infected with human swine influenza in an infirmary ward in Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Wong Tai Sin Hospital, the hospital spokesman announced the following update today (October 15):
There are 12 more female patients (aged between 45 and 93) in the concerned ward presented with fever, sore throat or cough symptom. The patients are being treated under isolation and all are in stable condition. Appropriate tests are being carried out and the results of eight patients are positive to human swine influenza.
Deep cleansing and disinfection have been conducted in the concerned ward. Infection control measures have already been enhanced. Admission to and discharge from the ward are suspended for the time being. No visiting policy to the ward is also implemented. All patients and staff in the ward are under close surveillance."
" Regarding some patients being infected with human swine influenza in an infirmary ward in Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Wong Tai Sin Hospital, the hospital spokesman announced the following update today (October 15):
There are 12 more female patients (aged between 45 and 93) in the concerned ward presented with fever, sore throat or cough symptom. The patients are being treated under isolation and all are in stable condition. Appropriate tests are being carried out and the results of eight patients are positive to human swine influenza.
Deep cleansing and disinfection have been conducted in the concerned ward. Infection control measures have already been enhanced. Admission to and discharge from the ward are suspended for the time being. No visiting policy to the ward is also implemented. All patients and staff in the ward are under close surveillance."
Friday, October 15, 2010
Jaipur: After malaria, chikungunya tightens grip over the city
Via NDTV :
" Jaipur: After battling malaria, the state health department has been confronted by another equally dangerous viral fever spread by mosquitoes, chikungunya.
"The cases have been increasing steadily as we could not check the growth of mosquitoes after the monsoon this year. Most of the cases are being reported from the rural areas," said Dr CL Nawal, professor of medicine at Sawai Man Singh (SMS) medical college. I recently came across a few chikungunya patients who have become handicap due to severe reactive arthritis, he added. Chikungunya is a viral disease, spread by Ades mosquitoes, popularly known as Tiger mosquito.
"Yes, we have come across quite a few cases of chikungunya in rural areas and a few from the city as well. We have been doing anti-larval activities to control the growth of mosquito," said Dr Yatindra Singh, chief medical and health officer of Jaipur II.
According to officials, more than 200 cases of chikungunya have been reported from across Jaipur district, while state-wide the number of cases has crossed the 1,000-patient mark. Chikungunya in its severe form can become dangerous leading to life-long pain in the joints.
" Jaipur: After battling malaria, the state health department has been confronted by another equally dangerous viral fever spread by mosquitoes, chikungunya.
"The cases have been increasing steadily as we could not check the growth of mosquitoes after the monsoon this year. Most of the cases are being reported from the rural areas," said Dr CL Nawal, professor of medicine at Sawai Man Singh (SMS) medical college. I recently came across a few chikungunya patients who have become handicap due to severe reactive arthritis, he added. Chikungunya is a viral disease, spread by Ades mosquitoes, popularly known as Tiger mosquito.
"Yes, we have come across quite a few cases of chikungunya in rural areas and a few from the city as well. We have been doing anti-larval activities to control the growth of mosquito," said Dr Yatindra Singh, chief medical and health officer of Jaipur II.
According to officials, more than 200 cases of chikungunya have been reported from across Jaipur district, while state-wide the number of cases has crossed the 1,000-patient mark. Chikungunya in its severe form can become dangerous leading to life-long pain in the joints.
India : Girl dies of dengue
Report coming from IBN Live, fatality due to dengue from Lucknow :
" Lucknow, Oct 15 : A teenaged girl died due to dengue at a private hospital, where she was undergoing treatment, officials said here today.Shalini (14), a resident of Madiyon area, died yesterday, they said.Three persons had died of the vector-borne disease on October 13 at Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS).Meanwhile, over a dozen fresh cases of dengue like symptoms were reported from different government hospitals in the city."
" Lucknow, Oct 15 : A teenaged girl died due to dengue at a private hospital, where she was undergoing treatment, officials said here today.Shalini (14), a resident of Madiyon area, died yesterday, they said.Three persons had died of the vector-borne disease on October 13 at Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS).Meanwhile, over a dozen fresh cases of dengue like symptoms were reported from different government hospitals in the city."
Dengue up in Singapore with over 160 each week
Via Xinhua :
" SINGAPORE, Oct. 15 : Dengue cases are on the rise in Singapore again, with more than 160 a week coming down with it over the past three weeks -- the highest weekly numbers over the past 21 months.
One person died from it in July, local daily The Straits Times reported Friday.
One of the biggest outbreaks involves more than 90 people.
It occurred when dengue first struck workers at a construction site in the west, then spread to other workers living in dormitories over in the east, then to households in that area.
More cases were reported Thursday."
" SINGAPORE, Oct. 15 : Dengue cases are on the rise in Singapore again, with more than 160 a week coming down with it over the past three weeks -- the highest weekly numbers over the past 21 months.
One person died from it in July, local daily The Straits Times reported Friday.
One of the biggest outbreaks involves more than 90 people.
It occurred when dengue first struck workers at a construction site in the west, then spread to other workers living in dormitories over in the east, then to households in that area.
More cases were reported Thursday."
Australia : More dengue fever cases uncovered in north Qld
Via ABC News :
" Another three cases of dengue fever have been recorded at Townsville in north Queensland, bringing the city's tally to 13 since the start of this year.
The three people diagnosed this week are from the same house in the suburb of Railway Estate.
Public health medical officer Dr Steven Donohue says there are probably more undiagnosed cases in the city."
" Another three cases of dengue fever have been recorded at Townsville in north Queensland, bringing the city's tally to 13 since the start of this year.
The three people diagnosed this week are from the same house in the suburb of Railway Estate.
Public health medical officer Dr Steven Donohue says there are probably more undiagnosed cases in the city."
India : 3 die of dengue
An article from Indian Express :
" Three persons, including a fire department personnel, died due to dengue at Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) in the state capital, officials said here on Thursday.
Three persons, including a fire department constable Dhirendra Kumar (35), who were undergoing treatment for dengue at SGPGIMS, died on Wednesday, they said."
" Three persons, including a fire department personnel, died due to dengue at Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) in the state capital, officials said here on Thursday.
Three persons, including a fire department constable Dhirendra Kumar (35), who were undergoing treatment for dengue at SGPGIMS, died on Wednesday, they said."
Pakistan : 70-75 Dengue suspects visit PIMS daily
Via Daily Times :
" ISLAMABAD:Every day, 70 to 75 Dengue-affected patients visit Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). Hospitals in city are running short of stock regarding A and O + blood. Administrations of hospitals have appealed to citizens to donate the said blood.
According to sources, at PIMS daily over 70 patients having symptoms of Dengue visit emergency of hospital. Staffs of the hospital send blood samples to National Institute of Health (NIH) to verify Dengue virus."
" ISLAMABAD:Every day, 70 to 75 Dengue-affected patients visit Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). Hospitals in city are running short of stock regarding A and O + blood. Administrations of hospitals have appealed to citizens to donate the said blood.
According to sources, at PIMS daily over 70 patients having symptoms of Dengue visit emergency of hospital. Staffs of the hospital send blood samples to National Institute of Health (NIH) to verify Dengue virus."
Malaria stalks Myanmar's poor as healthcare crumbles
A long editorial from Rob Bryan at Free Malaysia Today but it's worth your time to read it, excerpt :
" WAIMAW: In a sleepy, rural settlement in the far north of army-ruled Myanmar, farmer Tu Raw anxiously cuddles his young son and baby daughter, both coughing and feverish with the symptoms of malaria.
About half of the villagers in this remote corner of Kachin State are suffering from the mosquito-borne disease, but medical supplies provided by the Kachin Baptist Convention (KBC), a Christian group, ran out two weeks ago.
"We are waiting for medicine," said the 29-year-old, shaded from the fierce tropical heat by his wooden hut, as chickens squawked nearby.
Tu Raw, whose name has been changed for his safety, does not know when the next batch of malarial drugs will arrive and he owns no means of transport to get to the nearest clinic in Waimaw township.
In military-ruled Myanmar, saying anything seen as critical of the authorities can have serious consequences."
" WAIMAW: In a sleepy, rural settlement in the far north of army-ruled Myanmar, farmer Tu Raw anxiously cuddles his young son and baby daughter, both coughing and feverish with the symptoms of malaria.
About half of the villagers in this remote corner of Kachin State are suffering from the mosquito-borne disease, but medical supplies provided by the Kachin Baptist Convention (KBC), a Christian group, ran out two weeks ago.
"We are waiting for medicine," said the 29-year-old, shaded from the fierce tropical heat by his wooden hut, as chickens squawked nearby.
Tu Raw, whose name has been changed for his safety, does not know when the next batch of malarial drugs will arrive and he owns no means of transport to get to the nearest clinic in Waimaw township.
In military-ruled Myanmar, saying anything seen as critical of the authorities can have serious consequences."
New Zealand : 49 NZers died of swine flu last year
Via NZ Herald :
" Almost 50 New Zealanders died during last year's flu pandemic, more than originally estimated, a review says.
The Pandemic Influenza Mortality and Morbidity Review Group today released its review on the first wave of swine flu, or influenza A (H1N1), in New Zealand last year.
Group chair, professor Cynthia Farquhar, said 49 people died during last year's pandemic, including one New Zealander who died in the Cook Islands.
That's 14 more people than originally thought - 35 deaths were reported last year.
The additional deaths were identified because the group had access to data from other sources, including Births, Death and Marriages, laboratory results and clinical notes."
" Almost 50 New Zealanders died during last year's flu pandemic, more than originally estimated, a review says.
The Pandemic Influenza Mortality and Morbidity Review Group today released its review on the first wave of swine flu, or influenza A (H1N1), in New Zealand last year.
Group chair, professor Cynthia Farquhar, said 49 people died during last year's pandemic, including one New Zealander who died in the Cook Islands.
That's 14 more people than originally thought - 35 deaths were reported last year.
The additional deaths were identified because the group had access to data from other sources, including Births, Death and Marriages, laboratory results and clinical notes."
Fiji : H1N1 is here, warns Ministry
Via Fiji Times Online :
" H1N1 is now widely circulating in the community with health authorities expecting the virus to affect all divisions.
Health media officer Peni Namotu confirmed 28 H1N1 cases were recorded from August to this month.
"It is also the accumulative number of H1N1 cases so far as of January to October 2010," he said. "Patients presented influenza-like illnesses."
The age group most affected - 20-29yrs - accounts for 46 per cent of the total cases recorded. Mr Namotu said the seasonal flu high risk groups were usually those aged between five and 65 years.
"Surveillance systems are in place for both seasonal and pandemic influenza," he said.
"Surveillance via mobile health phones have also been implemented to enhance timely reporting."
" H1N1 is now widely circulating in the community with health authorities expecting the virus to affect all divisions.
Health media officer Peni Namotu confirmed 28 H1N1 cases were recorded from August to this month.
"It is also the accumulative number of H1N1 cases so far as of January to October 2010," he said. "Patients presented influenza-like illnesses."
The age group most affected - 20-29yrs - accounts for 46 per cent of the total cases recorded. Mr Namotu said the seasonal flu high risk groups were usually those aged between five and 65 years.
"Surveillance systems are in place for both seasonal and pandemic influenza," he said.
"Surveillance via mobile health phones have also been implemented to enhance timely reporting."
US : Newer flu vaccine as effective as traditional one
Via Reuters, excerpt :
" A flu vaccine made through a speedier production method appears to be as safe and effective as one produced in the traditional way, a study suggests. The conventional flu vaccine is produced using chicken eggs to grow the virus, a slow process that makes it hard to quickly boost production in response to a pandemic, such as the swine flu outbreak of 2009."
" A flu vaccine made through a speedier production method appears to be as safe and effective as one produced in the traditional way, a study suggests. The conventional flu vaccine is produced using chicken eggs to grow the virus, a slow process that makes it hard to quickly boost production in response to a pandemic, such as the swine flu outbreak of 2009."
High prevalence of poor man's diseases in India
An article from Zee News :
" Geneva: India continues to rank very high in the prevalence of neglected tropical diseases like dengue, rabies and soil-transmitted helminthiases, according to a report released by the World Health Organisation today.
"Of the world's poorest 2.7 billion people (defined as those who live on less than USD 2.00 a day), more than 1 billion are affected by one or more neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), says the report.
Though country-wide estimates are not provided, India is expected to have a majority of the 1 billion NTD-patients given the high incidence of poverty coupled with poor sanitary and hygine conditions. "
" Geneva: India continues to rank very high in the prevalence of neglected tropical diseases like dengue, rabies and soil-transmitted helminthiases, according to a report released by the World Health Organisation today.
"Of the world's poorest 2.7 billion people (defined as those who live on less than USD 2.00 a day), more than 1 billion are affected by one or more neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), says the report.
Though country-wide estimates are not provided, India is expected to have a majority of the 1 billion NTD-patients given the high incidence of poverty coupled with poor sanitary and hygine conditions. "
Namibia : Sudden outbreak of illness scares town
An article from The Namibian, a mysterious disease?? :
" An unknown disease almost caused the closing of the Nuuyoma Senior Secondary School in Omusati Region on Monday.
Children began to get sick last week Thursday. The principal, Silas Mulongeni, told The Namibian the symptoms presented were stomach ache, vomiting, high temperatures, headache, neck pain and typical cold symptoms.Blood samples have been sent to Windhoek for tests. Dr Ozimede Stanislaus yesterday said no test results have been received from Windhoek yet.
Mulongeni said even some of the workers and teachers at that school started complaining about the same symptoms. More than 90 pupils out of a total number of 720 pupils were affected by Monday.Mulongeni said they first took patients to the Oshikuku Catholic hospital for treatment, but the situation worsened from last Friday up to SundayBecause of the threat of meningitis in some regions, and the rapid spread of the sickness, the Oshikuku Hospital decided to keep patients in isolation and that doctors and nurses rather treat those affected at the school hostel.
Mulongeni said the school has 28 teachers and 30 workers. He said classes and general work in the school have been severely affected Apparently other learners are in panic, and are asking for immunisation.Patients have been put in isolation in a part of one of the hostels where they are being monitored and treated by Dr Stanislaus and assisted by some nurses.
Rumours are now going around that the school has been affected by H1N1."
" An unknown disease almost caused the closing of the Nuuyoma Senior Secondary School in Omusati Region on Monday.
Children began to get sick last week Thursday. The principal, Silas Mulongeni, told The Namibian the symptoms presented were stomach ache, vomiting, high temperatures, headache, neck pain and typical cold symptoms.Blood samples have been sent to Windhoek for tests. Dr Ozimede Stanislaus yesterday said no test results have been received from Windhoek yet.
Mulongeni said even some of the workers and teachers at that school started complaining about the same symptoms. More than 90 pupils out of a total number of 720 pupils were affected by Monday.Mulongeni said they first took patients to the Oshikuku Catholic hospital for treatment, but the situation worsened from last Friday up to SundayBecause of the threat of meningitis in some regions, and the rapid spread of the sickness, the Oshikuku Hospital decided to keep patients in isolation and that doctors and nurses rather treat those affected at the school hostel.
Mulongeni said the school has 28 teachers and 30 workers. He said classes and general work in the school have been severely affected Apparently other learners are in panic, and are asking for immunisation.Patients have been put in isolation in a part of one of the hostels where they are being monitored and treated by Dr Stanislaus and assisted by some nurses.
Rumours are now going around that the school has been affected by H1N1."
Uttar Pradesh: 4 more die of encephalitis, toll reaches 414
Via NDTV :
" Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh) : Four persons succumbed to encephalitis at Baba Raghav Das Medical College hospital in Gorakhpur during the last 24 hours, taking the death toll to 414 in the eastern region of Uttar Pradesh, a health official said on Wednesday.Additional Director (Health) U K Srivastav said the dead include one each from Gorakhpur, Mahrajganj, Gonda and Ballia districts.
A total of 34 new patients have been admitted to this hospital during the same period, he said.Of the total 414 deaths so far, 386 deaths occurred in BRD MCH while the remaining were reported from other state-run hospitals of the region - Gorakhpur, Basti, Deoria, Siddharthnagar, Kushinagar and Maharajganj districts."
" Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh) : Four persons succumbed to encephalitis at Baba Raghav Das Medical College hospital in Gorakhpur during the last 24 hours, taking the death toll to 414 in the eastern region of Uttar Pradesh, a health official said on Wednesday.Additional Director (Health) U K Srivastav said the dead include one each from Gorakhpur, Mahrajganj, Gonda and Ballia districts.
A total of 34 new patients have been admitted to this hospital during the same period, he said.Of the total 414 deaths so far, 386 deaths occurred in BRD MCH while the remaining were reported from other state-run hospitals of the region - Gorakhpur, Basti, Deoria, Siddharthnagar, Kushinagar and Maharajganj districts."
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Indonesia : Bird Flu Spreads Again
More reports coming out of Indonesia with regards to bird flu. This time a report from Bengkulu Ekspress :
" Yesterday, 10 chickens belonging Syamsir (35) Permanent Sub stabbed Village. Of the samples taken his side, 10 chickens suspected to have a virus tested positive for bird flu so Dispertanak determine the status of emergency for the Area 4 district, Central Tenebrous South Kaur, Padang Jar Hulu and now the Permanent Sub.
But so far there has been no report of human mnyerang or better known as suspect bird flu or H5N1 virus.
It is known after a number of teams that tergambung in, officers Participatory Deasease Surveylens and Response (PDSR) or Bird Flu Response teams conduct sampling. This was revealed by Head of Agriculture and Livestock Ir Buyung Wiyadi to BE, yesterday."
" Yesterday, 10 chickens belonging Syamsir (35) Permanent Sub stabbed Village. Of the samples taken his side, 10 chickens suspected to have a virus tested positive for bird flu so Dispertanak determine the status of emergency for the Area 4 district, Central Tenebrous South Kaur, Padang Jar Hulu and now the Permanent Sub.
But so far there has been no report of human mnyerang or better known as suspect bird flu or H5N1 virus.
It is known after a number of teams that tergambung in, officers Participatory Deasease Surveylens and Response (PDSR) or Bird Flu Response teams conduct sampling. This was revealed by Head of Agriculture and Livestock Ir Buyung Wiyadi to BE, yesterday."
Barbados : 321 confirmed cases of dengue
An article from Nation News :
" THE NUMBER of Barbadians infected with dengue fever for the year to date stands at 321.
Minister of Health Donville Inniss quoted this figure yesterday as he addressed a three-day Pan American Health Organisation/Caribbean Epidemiology Centre Emergency Vector Control workshop at Grand Barbados Beach Resort, Aquatic Gap, St Michael.
“In Barbados we have confirmed 321 cases of dengue fever with three reported deaths, in comparison to 91 in 2009. These figures are not ones which we wish to have continue,” he said.
Inniss said the rise of dengue cases was not restricted to Barbados, as there were 872 cases recorded in the region this year up to July in comparison to 242 during the same period last year."
" THE NUMBER of Barbadians infected with dengue fever for the year to date stands at 321.
Minister of Health Donville Inniss quoted this figure yesterday as he addressed a three-day Pan American Health Organisation/Caribbean Epidemiology Centre Emergency Vector Control workshop at Grand Barbados Beach Resort, Aquatic Gap, St Michael.
“In Barbados we have confirmed 321 cases of dengue fever with three reported deaths, in comparison to 91 in 2009. These figures are not ones which we wish to have continue,” he said.
Inniss said the rise of dengue cases was not restricted to Barbados, as there were 872 cases recorded in the region this year up to July in comparison to 242 during the same period last year."
Nepal : Dengue in Rautahat
Via The Himalayan Times :
" RAUTAHAT: Dengue has made inroads into this Tarai district, with the Gaur hospital confirming its virus in Sheikh Bigan (24) of Mathiya VDC-4. A factory worker in New Delhi, Bigan had returned home four days ago after falling ill. Doctors at the hospital are attending to him. According to Dr Ram Shanker Thakur, the hospital chief, they were preparing to send the patient to the Birgunj-based Narayani Sub-Regional Hospital for further treatment."
" RAUTAHAT: Dengue has made inroads into this Tarai district, with the Gaur hospital confirming its virus in Sheikh Bigan (24) of Mathiya VDC-4. A factory worker in New Delhi, Bigan had returned home four days ago after falling ill. Doctors at the hospital are attending to him. According to Dr Ram Shanker Thakur, the hospital chief, they were preparing to send the patient to the Birgunj-based Narayani Sub-Regional Hospital for further treatment."
Indonesia : A number of chickens died of bird flu suspected
Machine translated report from Wawasan Digital :
" SRAGEN : Outbreaks of Avian Influenza virus or better known as bird flu, allegedly rampant in Hamlet Karangasem RT 02/RW V, Kelurahan Karang Tengah, Sragen District Municipality. At least 6 kinds of bangkok chickens, died suddenly. The death of the chickens are only lasted 12 hours, since the first symptoms appear
Related to this, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries (Disnakan) Sragen government check conditions on the ground, to see the possibility of death due to bird flu. The owner of the chicken, Windarwati, explains, his six chickens died in four consecutive days.
Still said the mother of three children, death occurs suddenly chicken. Only about 12 hours later, his cock suddenly found dead in the cage. ''There are at least two cocks bangkok and the other four age responsibility, all of whom died suddenly,''said Windarwati told reporters on Wednesday (13/10) yesterday."
" SRAGEN : Outbreaks of Avian Influenza virus or better known as bird flu, allegedly rampant in Hamlet Karangasem RT 02/RW V, Kelurahan Karang Tengah, Sragen District Municipality. At least 6 kinds of bangkok chickens, died suddenly. The death of the chickens are only lasted 12 hours, since the first symptoms appear
Related to this, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries (Disnakan) Sragen government check conditions on the ground, to see the possibility of death due to bird flu. The owner of the chicken, Windarwati, explains, his six chickens died in four consecutive days.
Still said the mother of three children, death occurs suddenly chicken. Only about 12 hours later, his cock suddenly found dead in the cage. ''There are at least two cocks bangkok and the other four age responsibility, all of whom died suddenly,''said Windarwati told reporters on Wednesday (13/10) yesterday."
Pakistan : NIH confirms 1,141 cases of dengue fever
Via The Nation :
" ISLAMABAD : During the dengue fever spree in the country this year, the National Institute of Health (NIH) has tested as many as 1141 cases positive and of them eight patients had reported died.Total 167 suspected cases were reported in the Capital and out of which 38 were tested positive whereas so far one death has been confirmed.
So far, NIH received blood samples of 2553 dengue-suspected patients and out of which 1141 have been declared positive.
Sindh has the highest toll of confirmed dengue fever patients, as total of 989 cases were confirmed positive of 1971 blood samples and the death toll has reached 5.
Punjab is next after Sindh as the number of positive cases has reached 72 with one death. Total suspected cases registered from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are 128 of which 41 were tested positive. And the reported suspected cases in Azad Jammu Kashmir are 13 with one patient testing positive who later died."
" ISLAMABAD : During the dengue fever spree in the country this year, the National Institute of Health (NIH) has tested as many as 1141 cases positive and of them eight patients had reported died.Total 167 suspected cases were reported in the Capital and out of which 38 were tested positive whereas so far one death has been confirmed.
So far, NIH received blood samples of 2553 dengue-suspected patients and out of which 1141 have been declared positive.
Sindh has the highest toll of confirmed dengue fever patients, as total of 989 cases were confirmed positive of 1971 blood samples and the death toll has reached 5.
Punjab is next after Sindh as the number of positive cases has reached 72 with one death. Total suspected cases registered from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are 128 of which 41 were tested positive. And the reported suspected cases in Azad Jammu Kashmir are 13 with one patient testing positive who later died."
Bahrain : Bahraini victim of swine flu
Via Gulf Daily News :
" MANAMA: Bahrain has recorded its latest swine flu death, the GDN learnt yesterday.
A Bahraini, in his 40s, who contracted the virus last month, died at Salmaniya Medical Complex on Tuesday.
A Health Ministry spokesman confirmed the death, which is the eighth reported swine flu fatality in Bahrain, reports SANDEEP SINGH GREWAL."
" MANAMA: Bahrain has recorded its latest swine flu death, the GDN learnt yesterday.
A Bahraini, in his 40s, who contracted the virus last month, died at Salmaniya Medical Complex on Tuesday.
A Health Ministry spokesman confirmed the death, which is the eighth reported swine flu fatality in Bahrain, reports SANDEEP SINGH GREWAL."
Australian Influenza Surveillance 2010 - Latest report
Via Australia's Department of Health and Ageing, go to the site and you will find a full detailed PDF report :
" Report No. 39
Reporting period 25 September to 1 October 2010
" Report No. 39
Reporting period 25 September to 1 October 2010
- Levels of influenza-like illness (ILI) in the community increased through most surveillance systems this reporting period. Local, regional and widespread activity was reported within jurisdictions. The number of laboratory confirmed notifications decreased this reporting period.
- There were 666 laboratory confirmed notifications of influenza during this reporting period, including 498 pandemic (H1N1) 2009 cases. Notifications of laboratory confirmed influenza were highest in SA.
- Results from sentinel laboratory surveillance systems for this reporting period show that 17% of the respiratory tests conducted over this period were positive for influenza, which is the same as the last reporting period. In 2010, a total of 1072 specimens have been positive for influenza (of 12,793 specimens tested), of which 68% were pandemic (H1N1) 2009, 9% were A/H3N2, 21% were influenza B and 2% were influenza A untyped."
India : Dengue claims 4 more, rush for for platelets at hospitalsDengue claims 4 more, rush for for platelets at hospitals
Via Times of India, fatalities rises in Lucknow :
" LUCKNOW: Even as dengue claimed four more lives on Wednesday, over two dozen new suspected cases were admitted in various government and private hospitals.
While the blood bank in CSM Medical University (CSMMU) saw a mad rush of people for platelets, principal secretary, health, Pradeep Shukla inspected health facilities at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee and Ram Manohar Lohia hospitals and warned of strict action if any laxity is reported in treatment of the patients.
On the other hand civic authorities and health department claimed that anti-mosquito spray is being done in entire city and number of suspected dengue cases are on decline. With the fall in temperature the dengue virus is also likely to subdue by the last week of October.
While three deaths were reported from the SGPGI, one died on way to the hospital. In SGPGI, dengue snuffed the life out of Dilip Mishra from Rae Bareli, Akash Shukla from Kannauj and Vijay Gupta from Lucknow. Dharmendra Yadav (35), an employee at fire station in Hazratganj, had gone to his native village where he was infected and hospitalised in a local hospital from where he was referred to Lucknow but died on way. All the four patients who died due to dengue were also suffering from various other complications like diabetes and kidney ailment which aggravated due to the infection."
" LUCKNOW: Even as dengue claimed four more lives on Wednesday, over two dozen new suspected cases were admitted in various government and private hospitals.
While the blood bank in CSM Medical University (CSMMU) saw a mad rush of people for platelets, principal secretary, health, Pradeep Shukla inspected health facilities at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee and Ram Manohar Lohia hospitals and warned of strict action if any laxity is reported in treatment of the patients.
On the other hand civic authorities and health department claimed that anti-mosquito spray is being done in entire city and number of suspected dengue cases are on decline. With the fall in temperature the dengue virus is also likely to subdue by the last week of October.
While three deaths were reported from the SGPGI, one died on way to the hospital. In SGPGI, dengue snuffed the life out of Dilip Mishra from Rae Bareli, Akash Shukla from Kannauj and Vijay Gupta from Lucknow. Dharmendra Yadav (35), an employee at fire station in Hazratganj, had gone to his native village where he was infected and hospitalised in a local hospital from where he was referred to Lucknow but died on way. All the four patients who died due to dengue were also suffering from various other complications like diabetes and kidney ailment which aggravated due to the infection."
Taiwan Influenza Express
From Taiwan's CDC, influenza update week 40 (October 3–October 9, 2010), excerpt but here's the PDF report :
" Summary
During week 40 (October 3–October 9, 2010), influenza activity remained unchanged in Taiwan, and seasonal influenza virus type AH3 is predominant in the community. Most of the influenza viruses match the 2010–11 vaccine component.
" Summary
During week 40 (October 3–October 9, 2010), influenza activity remained unchanged in Taiwan, and seasonal influenza virus type AH3 is predominant in the community. Most of the influenza viruses match the 2010–11 vaccine component.
- Of the 466 specimens tested during week 38–40, 118 (25%) were positive for influenza
viruses, 103 (22%) were positive for influenza A (H3N2) viruses, 14 (3%) were positive for
pandemic (H1N1) 2009 viruses and 1 (<1%)> - Since July 1, 2010, there have been 535 reports of complicated influenza virus infections,
including 450 reports of seasonal influenza virus type H3N2 infections and 58 reports of
complicated pandemic (H1N1) 2009 virus infections. There were 22 new seasonal H3N2 cases and 1 new seasonal influenza A untyped case during week 40. Since July 1, 2009, there have been 997 reports of complicated pandemic (H1N1) 2009 virus infections (51 deaths). Since July 1, 2010, there have been 22 reports of death from complicated influenza infection; 7 from the pandemic H1N1 2009 and 15 from the seasonal H3N2 strain, respectively."
Malaysia : WHO is not doing enough to fight dengue
Via The Star :
" PUTRAJAYA: The World Health Organisation needs to do more in its fight against dengue, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.
Liow, who is also the chairman of the 61st session for the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific, said the world body was not doing enough.
“We want WHO to do more on dengue. I think they are not doing enough. Member countries realise that dengue is a concern in this region and representatives have expressed concern on the problem.
“We want WHO Western Pacific Region to convey this to the main body and to implement more comprehensive measures on how to eradicate the communicable disease effectively,” he said here yesterday.
Liow said if WHO could come in more “forcefully”, a multi-pronged strategy using both governmental and community approaches could be introduced."
" PUTRAJAYA: The World Health Organisation needs to do more in its fight against dengue, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.
Liow, who is also the chairman of the 61st session for the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific, said the world body was not doing enough.
“We want WHO to do more on dengue. I think they are not doing enough. Member countries realise that dengue is a concern in this region and representatives have expressed concern on the problem.
“We want WHO Western Pacific Region to convey this to the main body and to implement more comprehensive measures on how to eradicate the communicable disease effectively,” he said here yesterday.
Liow said if WHO could come in more “forcefully”, a multi-pronged strategy using both governmental and community approaches could be introduced."
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